FIFA is facing increasing pressure on its president, Gianni Infantino, following the collapse of a plan to sell a stake in the World Cup and new allegations related to his previous role at UEFA. Infantino has been at the helm of FIFA since 2016.

FIFA's Response to Allegations

In light of these developments, FIFA issued a statement warning of a "concerted and ongoing effort" aimed at undermining both the organization and Infantino himself. This statement was released late on Saturday and comes amid a growing dispute regarding Infantino's leadership, particularly after the failed initiative to create a subsidiary for managing the men's World Cup and other events, which included an offer of up to a 20% stake to outside investors.

The proposal faced backlash from UEFA, which threatened to boycott future World Cups, alongside criticism from various national associations and senior FIFA officials. This situation has led to calls for Infantino's resignation. However, he managed to secure the backing of FIFA's Board of Management during a crisis meeting held in Rabat, Morocco, on Wednesday.

Controversy Surrounding Infantino

The scrutiny on Infantino escalated when the Daily Telegraph reported a six-figure payment made to a female employee who was allegedly in a relationship with him during his tenure as UEFA general secretary. UEFA confirmed that a departure payment was made and that it funded her MBA course, asserting that both actions complied with regulations at the time. In response to these allegations, a FIFA spokesman stated that Infantino "strongly denies these allegations, and they are categorically untrue."

FIFA further addressed the situation, stating that recent reports have included "unsubstantiated assertions and demonstrably false claims" regarding the organization and its president.

Leadership Crisis and Support for Infantino

The fallout from the failed investment plan has overshadowed Infantino's aspirations for a fourth term as FIFA president. Following the crisis meeting, UEFA expressed a lack of confidence in Infantino, with Norwegian FA President Lise Klaveness calling for his resignation. Despite the controversies, Infantino continues to enjoy strong support among FIFA members, particularly from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), which has unanimously backed his leadership. Additionally, the South American governing body CONMEBOL has opposed any attempts to remove him without a vote from all member associations.

FIFA emphasized that individuals lacking the support of its member associations should not resort to "allegation, insinuation or misinformation" to achieve their goals, which they cannot accomplish through established democratic processes.