European Top Leagues Demand FIFA Overhaul Following Controversial World Cup Bid

Europe’s elite football leagues have intensified pressure on FIFA president Gianni Infantino following a contentious World Cup proposal.

By Reuters and The Associated Press | September 25, 2026

The Premier League, alongside leagues from Spain, Italy, and Germany, has demanded governance reforms within FIFA after Gianni Infantino’s failed initiative to sell World Cup stakes.

A joint statement from the four leagues accused FIFA’s president of actively promoting ‘exploitative ideas’ instead of protecting the sport.

As the wealthiest and most popular league in football, the Premier League’s alliance with its European counterparts amplifies the mounting pressure on Infantino. He intends to seek re-election despite losing the backing of numerous national federations over his disputed proposal to sell World Cup commercial rights to private investors.

The leagues stated that ‘football’s longstanding foundations have been threatened by a fundamental governance problem’ in recent years.

Infantino vows to do ‘what is right for the game’ as FIFA president

Facing ongoing criticism of his leadership, Infantino announced on social media Thursday that he is willing to engage in discussions with member nations regarding organizational reforms.

Infantino has faced backlash from major national federations and governing bodies globally, including UEFA and CONCACAF, which encompasses the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Since becoming FIFA president in February 2016, Infantino angered member nations with a now-scrapped plan to sell 20% of FIFA’s World Cup commercial rights to private investors. The deal, reportedly valued at $4.2 billion, prompted UEFA and CONCACAF, among others, to demand his replacement.

The latest escalation occurred last week when England’s Football Association demanded that Infantino release all documents related to his private investor plan for the World Cup, as well as the contentious decision to overturn US striker Folarin Balogun’s red card during this summer’s tournament.

Currently attending the Arabian Gulf Cup tournament in Saudi Arabia, Infantino praised the host nation and referenced a letter he sent to the FIFA council and member nations, proposing a discussion on reforms.

Infantino wrote on Instagram that he has received ‘positive messages’ in response to the letter, emphasizing the need for open communication.

He posted, in part: ‘We have a FIFA Council meeting next month, so we will continue to have a dialogue on these important matters. There must be a culture of dialogue, of listening to each other and respecting one another.’

Infantino addressed skeptics of his desire to discuss reforms.

Infantino wrote: ‘This is not about generating positive headlines; it is about what is right for the game. I have never been more determined and committed to doing that. FIFA is always engaged. I am always engaged and want to hear how we can continue to grow football for the benefit of everybody, everywhere.’

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