Fifa president Gianni Infantino faces potential legal action from Uefa following plans to sell shares of the men’s World Cup to private investors, according to reports by Sky Sports and The Times. The dispute centers on an alleged scheme developed alongside broker Jared Kushner, which European football officials claim was hatched without the knowledge of Fifa’s own board or member associations.
Uefa Files Legal Actions in the US and Prepares Swiss Filings
Uefa has initiated formal legal steps by filing court applications in Manhattan and Florida targeting Jared Kushner and Fifa offices, according to reporting by the New York Post. The European governing body is seeking the handover of documents related to the private equity plans. Meanwhile, the BBC reports that Uefa is preparing criminal complaints in Switzerland against Infantino and other unnamed Fifa officials and advisers for alleged gross mismanagement. Uefa claims the secret structure caused direct damage to Fifa’s governance and commercial relations, potentially harming its 211 member associations, including Uefa’s 55 members.
Infantino Cancels High-Profile US Trip Amid Legal Scrutiny
The impending legal fallout appeared to disrupt the Fifa president’s travel schedule. The New York Post reported that Infantino canceled a planned trip to the United States, where he was scheduled to speak at a Wall Street event at a luxury hotel in Los Angeles. A Fifa spokesperson disputed the connection to the court filings, telling the New York Post that Mr. Infantino was currently in Asia and had informed organizers earlier in the week that he could not attend. Court documents obtained by the New York Post reveal that the plans involving Kushner had been under development for nearly a year before leaking to the media.
Did you know?
According to documents cited by the BBC, Uefa’s legal filings allege that Gianni Infantino pursued the World Cup equity sale scheme with the intent to benefit himself and private investors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Uefa taking legal action against Gianni Infantino?
Uefa is pursuing legal steps and preparing criminal complaints in Switzerland over Infantino’s now-scrapped plans to sell shares of the World Cup to private investors without notifying football governing bodies.
Who is involved in the World Cup share plans besides Fifa?
Jared Kushner was slated to act as a broker in the plans to sell World Cup stakes to private investors, according to court documents cited by US and British media outlets.
How has Fifa responded to the allegations?
While Fifa officials have not directly addressed the substance of the criminal complaints reported by the BBC, a spokesperson denied that court filings influenced Infantino’s decision to cancel a recent trip to the United States.
What was the outcome of Uefa’s boycott stance?
Amid the unfolding legal dispute over the World Cup equity plans, Uefa announced it would lift its boycott against tournaments organized by Fifa, according to reporting.
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