[Gianni Infantino Apologizes to FIFA Council Over Leadership Plan; Veto Remains Until Full Disclosure]
President Gianni Infantino has apologised to the Fifa Council for his World Cup-related exit strategy—but has been told he remains unfit to lead until he discloses all relevant documents and resolves key inquiries.
The Fifa Council convened in Zurich for its first meeting since the clandestine Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal—which sought to transfer part of the federation’s commercial rights to a private investor—was revealed and subsequently aborted.
During the three-and-a-half-hour session, Infantino also faced questioning over Folarin Balogun’s suspended red‑card sanction, the upcoming FIFA Peace Prize, and potential funding arrangements for national associations.
Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt, a fifa vice‑president, stated that numerous outstanding issues persisted following the meeting.
“One of the most disappointing outcomes is that our specific requests went unanswered,” Hewitt observed.
“When pressed for clarification, Infantino asked why the response had been delayed and demanded a written submission.”, she added.
“I contend that the individual must address these questions immediately; otherwise, he cannot serve as fifa president.”, she concluded.
In his opening statement, Infantino emphasized that his principal remorse stemmed from failing to bring the FFE matter to the council’s attention in advance.
“If you find this lapse regrettable, please share your thoughts publicly.”, he urged the audience.
Hewitt affirmed that, from her standpoint, no substantive changes had occurred in UEFA’s attitude toward Infantino.
“At this stage, there is no new evidence suggesting a reassessment of his candidacy.”, she noted.
