The world against Infantino: the greatest work of self-destruction after "cutting himself"

The world has turned its back on Gianni Infantino, with fans in Switzerland publicly denouncing him as part of a "mafia of football." A provocative sign reading "¡Fuck off Infantino!" was displayed by supporters of Lausana during a match against Basel, marking a dramatic shift in public perception. Once hailed as the architect of a successful World Cup expansion, Infantino’s reputation has crumbled rapidly. His ambitious plans for expanding the World Cup to include 64 teams were met with skepticism, and his recent decisions have led to widespread criticism. Infantino's downfall began with his controversial decision to sell a 20% stake in the World Cup broadcasting rights for $20 billion. This move came after the 2026 World Cup in the United States generated only around $13 billion in revenue. Critics argue that this deal undermined the FIFA’s financial stability and sovereignty. The sale was reportedly influenced by discussions with wealthy individuals, including figures associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump had previously supported Infantino’s efforts to lift sanctions against American player Folarin Balogun, which further fueled controversy. Infantino’s actions have sparked legal threats from European officials, who accuse him of arrogance and mismanagement. Folarin Balogun, whose case led to significant backlash, has threatened legal action against Infantino and Joshua Kushner, the partner behind the investment deal. Europe, particularly the European Union, has expressed concerns over the influence of powerful political allies, such as Trump, on FIFA’s governance. In response to mounting pressure, Infantino called an emergency meeting of his Council. The meeting aims to address internal dissent and reassess the organization’s direction. However, many believe that the damage has already been done. The International Football Association Board (IFAB) and other governing bodies are under scrutiny for their role in approving the controversial deals. The situation has also raised questions about the future of FIFA’s leadership. With upcoming elections set for March 18th in Rabat, there is growing speculation about whether Infantino will remain in power. Some analysts suggest that securing enough votes, currently estimated at around 106, will be challenging given the current climate of distrust. The election outcome could mark a turning point for FIFA, potentially leading to a new era of governance. Meanwhile, Infantino continues to maintain close ties with political figures, including Colombia’s newly elected president, Abelardo de la Espriella, who is aligned with Trump’s policies. This alliance underscores the complex interplay between sports and politics within FIFA. Despite these connections, the organization faces increasing demands for transparency and accountability. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on how FIFA will navigate its challenges. The coming weeks will likely determine whether Infantino can recover from his recent controversies or if he will step down, paving the way for a new leader. The international football community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes fairness and integrity over personal ambition.