A global coalition of soccer fan associations has initiated a petition demanding the resignation of Gianni Infantino as FIFA president following his proposal to sell off future World Cup revenues to private investors. The petition, under the hashtag InfantinOut, also advocates for a structural overhaul of FIFA to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The petition highlights the outrage caused by Infantino’s failed attempt to commercialize the World Cup, labeling it as a shocking betrayal of football. Notably, the petition has garnered support from various fan groups such as Football Supporters Europe, Football Supporters Africa, the Independent Supporters Council in North America, and approximately 40 national fan organizations worldwide.
Despite facing widespread criticism, including a lack of confidence from UEFA, CONCACAF, and the Asian Football Confederation, Infantino has refused to step down. The fan petition accuses him of displaying a significant lack of leadership and transparency within FIFA, eroding trust in the organization.
Furthermore, the petition references Infantino’s controversial backing of initiatives like the European Super League and the proposal to host World Cups biennially, actions that have alienated fans. It concludes by stressing the necessity of Infantino’s resignation for FIFA’s credibility and the integrity of the sport.
The ongoing controversy surrounding Infantino’s World Cup profit-sharing plan has led to internal resignations within FIFA, with key adviser Carlos Cordeiro stepping down citing the proposal as detrimental to football’s interests.
