US President Donald Trump has warned FIFA that removing its president, Gianni Infantino, would be a “terrible mistake”, as pressure mounts on the football governing body’s leadership.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Mr Trump strongly defended Mr Infantino, praising his leadership and his role in overseeing the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which was hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
“FIFA would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing President Gianni Infantino,” Mr Trump said.
He described Mr Infantino as “fantastic” and credited him with presiding over what he called the most successful World Cup ever staged.
Mr Trump added that if Mr Infantino were removed, “it will never be as successful or profitable again”.
The intervention comes as Mr Infantino faces growing pressure following controversy over a proposal to sell a stake in FIFA’s commercial rights to private investors. The plan has since been abandoned, but opposition from several football confederations has continued.
UEFA, alongside the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and Concacaf, has raised concerns about FIFA’s leadership and governance, with tensions between the governing body and some of its major confederations deepening.
Mr Infantino has resisted calls for him to step aside and has defended his record at FIFA.
Mr Trump’s latest comments represent a strong public endorsement of the FIFA president at a time when his leadership is facing one of its most serious challenges.
The dispute could have wider implications for the future direction of world football, particularly as FIFA prepares for major commercial and organisational decisions following the 2026 World Cup.
