A global coalition of soccer fan organizations initiated a petition on Thursday demanding the resignation of Gianni Infantino as FIFA president following his proposal to privatize future World Cup revenues. The petition, labeled InfantinOut, also urges a reconstruction of FIFA to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Describing Infantino’s attempt to commercialize the World Cup as a disgraceful act of betrayal, the petition highlighted the president’s abandoned scheme to involve private investors in the prestigious tournament. This proposal was swiftly retracted in response to widespread outrage.
Among the fan groups involved are Football Supporters Europe, Football Supporters Africa, and the Independent Supporters Council in North America, along with approximately 40 national fan associations worldwide.
Despite facing calls for his resignation, Infantino has remained in office, despite UEFA expressing a lack of confidence in him. Criticism has also come from CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation leadership.
The petition denounces Infantino’s leadership as a failure incompatible with democratic principles, citing concerns about centralized power within FIFA, opaque decision-making processes, and lack of accountability. It emphasizes the necessity for Infantino to step down for the sake of FIFA’s credibility and the sport’s future.
Furthermore, the petition points out Infantino’s controversial support for initiatives such as the failed European Super League and the proposal to host World Cups biennially.