Sepp Blatter and La Liga president Javier Tebas have united in calling for Gianni Infantino to resign as FIFA president, accusing him of destroying the football industry. The criticism comes amid Spain’s World Cup victory and growing concerns over FIFA’s expansion plans.
Blatter and Tebas Demand Infantino’s Resignation
Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter urged fans, players, and national associations to “reclaim football and bring it back to its roots under new leadership.” Tebas echoed the sentiment, claiming Infantino’s “time is up” and that he is “destroying the football industry” by prioritizing the World Cup over national competitions.
Key Criticisms of Infantino’s Leadership
- Expanding the 2030 World Cup to 64 teams from 48, which Tebas calls “irresponsible.”
- Prioritizing a 40-day event over year-round national leagues that support tens of thousands of jobs.
- Allegations of a “rotten” system where Infantino faces no opposition for re-election.
World Cup Expansion Controversy
Tebas specifically opposed Infantino’s plan to increase the 2030 tournament to 64 teams. “Increasing the number of national teams makes no sense,” Tebas told Italy’s La Gazzetta dello Sport. “The football industry is not just the World Cup. Not everything can revolve around the World Cup.”
Data Comparison: Current vs. Proposed World Cup
| Aspect | Current Format (2026) | Proposed 2030 Format |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Teams | 48 | 64 |
| Match Duration | ~30 days | ~40 days |
| Impact on National Leagues | Moderate disruption | Severe disruption |
Infantino’s Re-Election Prospects
Despite the backlash, Infantino is poised to be re-elected for a fourth term in March, likely unopposed for the third time. Tebas admitted, “He has the support of the system, of the federations. There is no opposition candidate, nobody wants to stand just to lose. It is a system rotten at its core.”
FAQ
Why do Blatter and Tebas want Infantino to resign?
They accuse him of destroying the football industry by expanding the World Cup at the expense of national leagues and failing to protect the sport’s roots.
What is the controversy over the 2030 World Cup expansion?
Infantino plans to increase the tournament to 64 teams, which critics argue will disrupt national competitions and reduce the quality of football.
Will Infantino face opposition in the next FIFA election?
No, he is expected to run unopposed for the third consecutive time, highlighting a lack of democratic challenge within FIFA.
The call for Infantino’s resignation marks a significant moment in football governance, with two influential figures uniting against the current leadership. As the debate intensifies, the future of FIFA and the World Cup remains uncertain.