Figo Calls On Infantino To Resign As FIFA President
Portugal football legend Luís Figo has called on Gianni Infantino to step down as FIFA president, accusing him of betraying the trust of the global football community.
Figo's comments follow widespread criticism of Infantino's reported attempt to sell stakes in the FIFA World Cup to private equity investors.
The proposal has reportedly triggered strong opposition from football stakeholders, with several confederations, including UEFA, threatening to boycott the initiative and withdrawing support for Infantino's re-election bid.
The controversy has also led to the resignation of several senior FIFA figures, including former adviser Carlos Cordeiro.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Figo said Infantino no longer enjoys the confidence of his closest advisers, senior staff or much of the football community.
"Today I join others from across our game and call for Gianni Infantino to resign as FIFA President," Figo said.
He accused the FIFA chief of damaging the integrity of the office.
"Infantino has debased the office that he promised to elevate. He has lied, deceived and tried to feather his own nest at the expense of the game he is supposed to serve.
"He has lost the support of his senior staff, his closest advisers, the vast majority of people who devote their lives to this sport.
"It is too late to save his dignity but it is not too late to save football. He should go. Now."
The remarks add to mounting pressure on Infantino amid growing debate over FIFA's governance and the future direction of world football.
Figo's comments follow widespread criticism of Infantino's reported attempt to sell stakes in the FIFA World Cup to private equity investors.
The proposal has reportedly triggered strong opposition from football stakeholders, with several confederations, including UEFA, threatening to boycott the initiative and withdrawing support for Infantino's re-election bid.
The controversy has also led to the resignation of several senior FIFA figures, including former adviser Carlos Cordeiro.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Figo said Infantino no longer enjoys the confidence of his closest advisers, senior staff or much of the football community.
"Today I join others from across our game and call for Gianni Infantino to resign as FIFA President," Figo said.
He accused the FIFA chief of damaging the integrity of the office.
"Infantino has debased the office that he promised to elevate. He has lied, deceived and tried to feather his own nest at the expense of the game he is supposed to serve.
"He has lost the support of his senior staff, his closest advisers, the vast majority of people who devote their lives to this sport.
"It is too late to save his dignity but it is not too late to save football. He should go. Now."
The remarks add to mounting pressure on Infantino amid growing debate over FIFA's governance and the future direction of world football.
