Mark Carney Calls for FIFA President Infantino to Step Down
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has called on FIFA President Gianni Infantino to step down, saying he no longer has confidence in the football governing body’s leader following controversy surrounding a proposed private investment deal involving the FIFA World Cup. Carney’s comments represent one of the strongest criticisms of Infantino from a sitting world leader and have intensified scrutiny of FIFA’s governance ahead of the organization’s next presidential election.
Speaking to reporters, Carney said the issue was not simply the investment proposal itself but the manner in which it was handled. He argued that failing to inform senior FIFA officials and board members about a significant proposal before advancing it reflected a serious breakdown in governance. According to Carney, such a lapse should result in a loss of confidence in the organization’s leadership.
The controversy centers on a now-abandoned proposal to create a commercial entity that would manage aspects of the FIFA World Cup and bring in private investment reportedly valued at up to $20 billion. The plan faced widespread opposition from football stakeholders, including UEFA and several regional football confederations, who criticized both the proposal and the lack of consultation before it became public. The backlash ultimately forced FIFA to abandon the initiative.
Carney’s remarks add to growing criticism of Infantino from within the football community. Former Portugal international Luís Figo has publicly demanded the FIFA president’s resignation, while several football administrators and governance experts have questioned whether FIFA’s current leadership has maintained adequate standards of transparency and accountability.
Despite mounting pressure, Infantino has remained in office. Following an emergency meeting of FIFA’s leadership, the organization issued a statement reaffirming its support for the president. Infantino acknowledged shortcomings in the handling of the investment proposal, apologized for the lack of transparency, and pledged reforms aimed at improving FIFA’s governance processes. However, questions over his long-term leadership remain as preparations continue for the 2027 FIFA presidential election.
The latest controversy comes at a pivotal time for world football, with FIFA continuing preparations for future international tournaments while facing renewed calls for greater transparency and institutional reform. Although Infantino has previously announced his intention to seek another term as FIFA president, the growing criticism from political leaders and football figures has intensified debate over the future direction of the sport’s governing body.
