Donald Trump says replacing FIFA president Gianni Infantino would be a terrible mistake

Former President Donald Trump broke his silence on the ongoing controversy surrounding FIFA President Gianni Infantino, issuing his first public remarks in the official’s defence since the leak of the FIFA Financial Exposure (FFE) plans on July 28. In a brief statement released through his communications team, Trump asserted that the leaked documents were being misinterpreted and that Infantino’s leadership remained “integral to the sport’s global growth.” The comment marks a notable shift, as Trump had previously refrained from commenting on the internal governance issues that have plagued the soccer governing body this summer.

The FFE leak, which detailed proposed financial restructuring and new revenue-sharing models, sparked criticism from several member associations and prompted calls for greater transparency within FIFA. Analysts note that Trump’s intervention, though limited, could influence public perception given his high profile and past involvement in sports ventures. As FIFA prepares to address the fallout at its upcoming executive meeting, the organization has not yet responded to Trump’s remarks, leaving stakeholders to await further clarification on the disputed plans.