UEFA to file criminal mismanagement complaint against FIFA president Infantino in Switzerland

UEFA has formally announced that it will file a legal complaint against FIFA president Gianni Infantino in Switzerland, alleging “criminal mismanagement” in connection with the failed World Cup sell‑off plan. The decision was revealed by the Guardian on Wednesday, just as national football federations and club executives were gathering in Monte Carlo for the Champions League draw. The complaint follows UEFA’s earlier move to withdraw a proposed boycott of FIFA competitions, a step that some observers had interpreted as a retreat from efforts to unseat Infantino.

The complaint will target Infantino’s role in the World Cup sell‑off scheme, which failed to meet its financial targets and was widely criticised for its lack of transparency. UEFA’s statement emphasises that the legal action is part of a broader strategy to hold FIFA leadership accountable, although it acknowledges that removing Infantino will remain an uphill struggle. The complaint is expected to be filed in Switzerland, where FIFA is headquartered, and will likely trigger further investigations into FIFA’s governance and financial practices.