Trump says it would be 'terrible mistake' to replace FIFA's Infantino

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Truth Social on Monday (August 10, 2026) that "FIFA would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing President Gianni Infantino," publicly backing the FIFA president. He called the Italian-Swiss lawyer "fantastic" and wrote that Infantino "presided over the most successful World Cup, by four times, ever presented," adding "If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again!"

Gianni Infantino is facing scrutiny over allegations of a workplace affair and criticism of a failed private investment scheme, and FIFA has publicly defended him. FIFA described the backlash as "a concerted and ongoing effort by some to undermine" the organization.

Mr. Trump's endorsement stands in contrast to the response from U.S. Soccer, which issued a statement critiquing the FIFA leader. Canada Soccer and football organizations in Central America and the Caribbean also joined in criticising Mr. Infantino.

Other regional governing bodies have expressed the opposite stance; the Confederation of African Football and South American governing body CONMEBOL are listed among organisations that share Mr. Trump's position in supporting Mr. Infantino. FIFA's defenders and its critics therefore represent opposing blocs within world football.

The report carrying this account was published on August 11, 2026 at 09:47 am IST and included a file picture credited to Reuters.

Mr. Infantino faces reelection next March and has denied allegations of wrongdoing.