UEFA Prepares Criminal Complaint Against FIFA President Infantino Over World Cup Deal

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is preparing to file a criminal complaint against FIFA president Gianni Infantino in Switzerland, citing potential financial mismanagement. This action stems from a previously proposed plan by Infantino to sell stakes in future World Cup commercial revenues to private investors. UEFA's lawyers have stated in court documents that the proposed $4.2 billion deal for a 20% stake, intended for investors like Joshua Kushner's Thrive Capital Management, was potentially a 'fraudulently off-market price' benefiting Infantino and a select group.

UEFA has filed discovery requests in Manhattan and Florida courts to gather evidence related to the proposed transaction. Infantino reportedly abandoned the plan on August 1st following significant backlash from global soccer leaders. UEFA had previously warned FIFA against destroying or concealing relevant documents. The football body's lawyers argue the deal's valuation was significantly below market, lacking a competitive process or independent assessment, and was intended to give investors a permanent financial interest in FIFA's assets to their detriment.

While UEFA is pursuing legal action, FIFA president Infantino has received recent public support from the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF). SAFF stated it supports Infantino's efforts to foster unity in soccer. Infantino has cultivated strong ties with Saudi Arabia, including with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and played a role in the kingdom securing the 2034 World Cup.