Uefa Files Criminal Complaint Against Infantino in FIFA Battle 2026

UEFA has raised the stakes in its battle to unseat FIFA president Gianni Infantino by filing a criminal complaint in Switzerland over his role in the failed World Cup sell-off plan. The move, announced during the Champions League draw in Monte Carlo, marks a dramatic escalation in the ongoing power struggle within world football's governing bodies.

UEFA's Legal Offensive Against Infantino

The complaint alleges criminal mismanagement by Infantino in connection with the abandoned FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal. UEFA described the plan, which would have sold a stake in FIFA's commercial operations, as having an "absurdly low enterprise value of only approximately $20bn" (£14.7bn). This valuation, UEFA argues, was far below what FIFA's assets are truly worth.

UEFA's first legal step involves seeking disclosure in the United States of documents related to the FFE proposal. A 56-page document has been sent to three US courts to support this request. The organisation believes that these documents will reveal the full extent of the mismanagement and provide grounds for Infantino's removal.

Background of the Conflict

The conflict between UEFA and FIFA has been simmering since Infantino withdrew the FFE plan just four days after it became public. UEFA had initially threatened a boycott of FIFA competitions but later withdrew that threat, leading some to believe they were backing down. However, this criminal complaint shows that UEFA is instead intensifying its efforts.

The timing is significant, as it coincided with a major day in European football, drawing attention from national federations and club executives alike. UEFA's decision to allow European teams to participate in upcoming women's tournaments was seen as a concession, but the legal action reveals a more aggressive strategy.

Comparison of FIFA's Valuation and Potential Impact

The table above illustrates the disparity in valuations. UEFA believes that the low valuation was a deliberate attempt to sell FIFA's assets at a loss, possibly for personal gain or to secure a deal with a preferred partner. This is central to the criminal mismanagement claim.

What This Means for Football Governance

If UEFA succeeds in its legal action, it could force Infantino to step down, fundamentally altering the leadership of world football. This would have widespread implications for how FIFA is run, including its financial transparency and accountability.

• UEFA's criminal complaint could lead to a formal investigation in Switzerland.
• The US court disclosure could uncover damaging evidence against Infantino.
• This legal battle may set a precedent for how football's governing bodies are held accountable.
• Infantino's position is increasingly precarious as pressure mounts from European football leaders.

Reactions and Next Steps

Infantino has not yet responded publicly to the complaint, but his allies within FIFA have dismissed it as a politically motivated attack. Meanwhile, UEFA has stated that it is committed to pursuing all legal avenues to ensure proper governance.

The next steps involve the US courts ruling on the disclosure request. If granted, UEFA will gain access to documents that could prove crucial in the Swiss criminal case. This is a developing story that could reshape the landscape of international football.

FAQ