Global Soccer Fans Demand FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s Resignation

A global coalition of soccer fan groups initiated a petition on Thursday urging Gianni Infantino to step down as FIFA president. This move follows his controversial proposal to sell future World Cup profits to private investors.

The petition, tagged as InfantinOut, also appeals for a comprehensive restructuring of FIFA. The fan groups argue that this will prevent similar situations from arising in the future.

“The shameful attempt by one individual — the FIFA President himself — to sell off the World Cup to private investors exposed a betrayal football will never forget,” the petition stated regarding Infantino’s recently abandoned plan for a commercial venture.

The involved fan groups comprise Football Supporters Europe, Football Supporters Africa, and North America’s Independent Supporters Council, along with around 40 other national fan groups globally.

Infantino remains resolute against leaving office despite opposition from UEFA, the European soccer body, which has expressed a lack of confidence in his leadership. Criticism also comes from leaders in North America’s CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation.

“Gianni Infantino has demonstrated a profound failure of leadership, incompatible with democratic governance,” the petition claims. It highlights issues such as the centralization of power in the FIFA Presidency, opaque decision-making processes, and the lack of accountability which have eroded trust in the organization.

To restore FIFA’s credibility and secure the sport’s future, the petition insists Infantino must resign. The petition also references Infantino’s past support for controversial projects, such as the unsuccessful European Super League and the idea of biennial World Cups.