Mark Carney No Confidence in Infantino as Fifa Crisis Deepens 2026

Mark Carney has expressed no confidence in Infantino, the Fifa president, amid growing calls for his resignation. The Canadian prime minister's statement adds to the pressure on Gianni Infantino after Luís Figo condemned his leadership. This crisis threatens the future of World Cup financing and football governance.

Infantino's World Cup Investment Plan Sparks Backlash

Infantino's proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors was met with fierce opposition. Uefa led the criticism, and the plan was scrapped after a significant backlash. The decision came after Arsène Wenger, Fifa's chief of global football development, distanced himself from the scheme, calling its withdrawal "absolutely necessary and beyond question."

Luís Figo, the Portugal legend, described the plan as "the lowest, most deceitful and cravenly self-interested behaviour I have ever witnessed." He accused Infantino of having "debased the office of Fifa president that he promised to elevate" since taking over in 2016.

Carney's Intervention and Concacaf's Role

Mark Carney, who is close to Concacaf president Victor Montagliani, said "It should be fatal" regarding the abortive sell-off scheme. He added, "Certainly I don't have confidence in Mr Infantino." Montagliani is being urged to run against Infantino in next year's Fifa presidential election, though he has yet to commit. Concacaf has called for a thorough review of Fifa's governance, with many members ready to withdraw support for Infantino.

Fifa Governance Under Scrutiny

The crisis deepened when Prince Ali bin al-Hussein, president of the Jordan Football Association, accused Fifa of blackmail. He claimed Fifa threatened to withhold financial assistance unless his federation backed Infantino's re-election bid. This follows a pattern of governance concerns that have plagued Fifa for years.

Infantino called an emergency meeting of Fifa staff on Wednesday as pressure mounts. The beleaguered president is now battling for his future, with key figures in football questioning his leadership.

Comparison of Leadership Responses

Key Takeaways

• Mark Carney has publicly stated no confidence in Infantino.
• Luís Figo demands Infantino's resignation over World Cup investment plan.
• Fifa's governance is under renewed scrutiny with calls for reform.
• Victor Montagliani may challenge Infantino in the next election.
• The World Cup's financial future is uncertain amid investor backlash.

FAQ