A global coalition of football fan associations initiated a petition on Thursday demanding the resignation of Gianni Infantino as the President of FIFA following his attempt to offer future World Cup profits to private investors. The petition, labeled InfantinOut, also urges for a reconstruction of FIFA to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The petition highlighted Infantino’s failed proposal to commercialize the World Cup, which was met with strong opposition and subsequently retracted. Notable fan groups involved in the initiative include Football Supporters Europe, Football Supporters Africa, the Independent Supporters Council in North America, as well as approximately 40 national fan organizations worldwide.
Despite facing calls for his departure, Infantino has refused to step down, despite UEFA expressing a lack of confidence in his leadership. Criticism has also been directed at him from CONCACAF in North America and the Asian Football Confederation. The petition condemned Infantino’s leadership style as undemocratic and lacking transparency, emphasizing the necessity for his resignation to restore trust in FIFA and safeguard the integrity of the sport.
Furthermore, the petition highlighted Infantino’s controversial support for initiatives like the European Super League and the proposal to host World Cups biennially, actions that have stirred discontent among fans. Calls for his resignation have been reinforced by the belief that his tenure threatens the credibility of FIFA and the future of football.
