Kriza v Fifi: Gianni Infantino Maroku obljublja veliko podporo javnosti

Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, has reportedly made a major promise to Morocco in exchange for public support during a crisis meeting held in Rabat. The meeting took place at the Mohammed VI complex in Salé, near the Moroccan capital, where Infantino convened his inner circle amid growing pressure over his leadership. According to reports, he pledged that Morocco would host the final of the 2030 World Cup, which the North African nation shares with Spain. This comes as Spain hopes to stage the match at its Santiago Bernabéu stadium in Madrid. The claim was initially reported by The Times, citing sources close to the situation. It suggests that Infantino, who has relied on Moroccan backing since his election in 2016, is seeking formal support from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, led by Fouzi Lekjaa. In return, Morocco would be granted the opportunity to host the World Cup final in the newly constructed Hassan II Stadium in Casablanca, which is set to be completed by December 2027. However, FIFA quickly denied the allegations through EFE, Spain’s main news agency, calling the claims “false and misleading.” The organization stated that decisions regarding the 2030 World Cup final will be made “in due time,” though it did not specify when. Infantino finds himself increasingly isolated after losing key allies within FIFA. Earlier this week, Mattias Grafström, the organization's secretary general, resigned, describing a series of “sad and condemnable” events that had led to the abandonment of a controversial proposal to allow private investors into FIFA. Kevin Lamour, the third-ranking official, had previously stepped down as well. Meanwhile, Arsène Wenger, a prominent figure in global football development under Infantino, expressed regret over learning about the investor plan through the media rather than directly from him. The European Union of Football (UEFA), along with the Asian and North American football confederations, had urged Infantino to abandon the initiative. Despite these setbacks, Infantino appears determined to retain his position. He is currently attempting to secure public endorsements from countries and individuals still aligned with him. Notably, Saudi Arabia, one of his long-time supporters and designated host of the 2034 World Cup, has remained silent on the issue, raising concerns among Infantino’s camp. The upcoming FIFA Congress in March 2027, which will elect the organization’s next leader, looms large. With no clear opposition yet, Infantino is vying for a fourth term, although several leaders from UEFA, CONCACAF, and the Asian Football Confederation have publicly called for his immediate resignation. In an effort to bolster his position, Infantino’s advisors are reaching out to so-called “FIFA legends”, former international players paid to attend events organized by the governing body. Among them, Portuguese star Luis Figo has openly criticized Infantino, urging him to step down immediately to “save football” rather than attempt to preserve his dignity. If Infantino were to lose the upcoming election or resign voluntarily, the promise made to Morocco regarding the 2030 World Cup final could face scrutiny, potentially leading to its cancellation in favor of Spain. Meanwhile, the Qatari Football Association has emerged as one of the few remaining supporters of Infantino following the abandonment of the private investment plan. In a statement released on August 1, the association described the decision as “welcomed in the interest of the global football community,” praising the wisdom behind prioritizing unity among member federations. However, the stance of African nations remains unclear, with no definitive indication of their support for Infantino’s continued tenure. As the situation unfolds, the future of FIFA’s leadership hangs in the balance. With internal divisions deepening and external pressures mounting, Infantino faces a critical juncture in his presidency. The outcome of the upcoming FIFA Congress will determine whether he can maintain control or if a new era for world football governance begins.