Soccer Fans Worldwide Demand FIFA President Infantino Step Down Over World Cup Privatization Scheme

Soccer fan groups spanning Europe, Africa, and North America delivered a petition Thursday in Geneva demanding the resignation of FIFA President Gianni Infantino over his failed effort to monetize future World Cup revenues through a private investor agreement. The campaign, identified by the hashtag #InfantinOut, represents approximately 40 national fan organizations alongside major coalitions including Football Supporters Europe, Football Supporters Africa, and the Independent Supporters Council.

Infantino’s proposal to create a commercial spinoff entity for World Cup profits triggered immediate condemnation before he abandoned the plan in the face of widespread opposition. The petition characterizes the scheme as “a shameful attempt by one individual — the FIFA President himself — to sell off the World Cup to private investors” and describes it as “a betrayal football will never forget.”

The fan groups assert that Infantino’s leadership has fundamentally compromised FIFA’s credibility through centralized decision-making, lack of transparency, and absence of accountability mechanisms. His tenure has also drawn fire from major continental confederations, including UEFA, CONCACAF, and the Asian Football Confederation, all expressing lack of confidence in his stewardship.

The petition additionally faults Infantino for backing contested initiatives such as the failed European Super League and proposals to host World Cups biennially. The fan groups contend that restoring public trust requires his departure and a comprehensive rebuilding of FIFA’s governance structure.