Infantino Planned to Bank £22 Million Salary Before FIFA Proposal Backlash
Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, has faced significant backlash following controversial plans regarding the World Cup and the potential sale of commercial stakes in major football competitions. The proposed Forward Enterprise (FFE) scheme aimed to secure a staggering £22.2 million salary for Infantino, which has sparked outrage among football governing bodies and fans alike.
Controversial Proposal Sparks Outrage
The FFE scheme was designed to enhance FIFA’s financial standing but was met with immediate condemnation from UEFA and the Football Association (FA). These organizations criticized the idea of selling stakes in the World Cup to private investors, leading to threats of a boycott from member associations. The backlash was swift and widespread, indicating a deep-seated discontent within the football community regarding FIFA’s governance.
Reports suggest that Infantino could have earned tens of millions through the FFE scheme, which has since been abandoned due to the uproar. UEFA has expressed a loss of confidence in Infantino, stating that the current FIFA leadership has failed to uphold the integrity of the sport.
UEFA’s Response to the Backlash
In a statement, UEFA emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “We cannot keep going on like this with secret schemes on fast track timescales, cooked up by faceless individuals and of dubious benefit to the game.” The organization has committed to working closely with its associations and other confederations to ensure that such proposals do not arise in the future.
UEFA’s statement further asserted that no options should be off the table in terms of reviewing FIFA’s leadership. The governing body has made it clear that it seeks to restore trust within the football community.
Support from the English FA and Other Organizations
The English FA has aligned itself with UEFA’s position, calling for a comprehensive review of FIFA’s governance. A spokesperson for the FA stated, “We fully support UEFA’s position. It is time for a full and robust review of FIFA’s leadership and governance to ensure that the global game is run transparently.”
Additionally, CONCACAF has called for a “comprehensive reckoning” of Infantino’s presidency, highlighting a pattern of poor governance that has prioritized personal gain over the sport’s integrity.
Infantino’s Defense of the FFE Scheme
Despite the backlash, Infantino has defended the FFE project, claiming it was intended to strengthen FIFA member associations and support football globally, particularly in under-resourced countries. He stated that the project would only proceed with the majority support of member associations and after thorough consultation.
However, sources close to the situation have indicated that the true intention behind the FFE was for Infantino to assume a more powerful role, potentially as a chief executive or commissioner, which would have significantly increased his salary.
Future Implications for FIFA
The fallout from the FFE proposal raises critical questions about the future of FIFA and its leadership. Infantino’s plans have not only drawn ire from UEFA and the FA but have also led to a broader discussion about governance in football. The need for transparency and accountability has never been more pressing, as stakeholders demand a system that prioritizes the sport’s integrity over personal ambitions.
As reported by www.mirror.co.uk, the situation continues to evolve, with various football organizations evaluating their positions and the implications of Infantino’s leadership.
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Published on 2026-08-02 12:37:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk