FIFA: Gianni Infantino, apologies but no resignation

Contested after the failure of his project to open FIFA competitions to private investors, Gianni Infantino admitted to making “mistakes” while dismissing any idea of resignation. The president of the global body received support from the FIFA Council following a crisis meeting held in Morocco.

Meeting for nearly seven hours in Morocco, FIFA leaders assessed the crisis triggered by the abandonment of the plan to sell a stake in World Cup revenues. At the end of this meeting on Wednesday, the global body issued a statement in which its Council reaffirmed its “full support” for Gianni Infantino, despite rising criticisms in recent days.

Apologies, but no resignation

In the face of the controversy, the FIFA president acknowledged having made “mistakes” in managing this matter. However, he rejected calls for his departure, believing he could continue to lead the organization. Among the displayed supporters is FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström. This position raises eyebrows, as he had recently described the plan to sell a stake in FIFA competitions as a “series of sad and reprehensible events.”

A few hours after this crisis meeting, Gianni Infantino and Mattias Grafström were seen together in the stands of a Women’s Africa Cup of Nations match held in Rabat, an appearance that illustrates the FIFA leadership’s intention to present a united front despite the turbulence faced by the organization.