According to a report by The Daily Telegraph on August 4th, Beijing time, sources revealed that US President Trump will "do everything possible" to help Gianni Infantino retain his position as FIFA president. Previously, Infantino's plans to sell a stake in some of his leagues had sparked strong opposition within the international football community, putting his presidency in jeopardy.
The plan has been shelved due to strong public backlash. Previously, UEFA and several continental football federations had threatened to boycott the World Cup if the plan continued. However, according to a senior US government official close to both men, Infantino helped the US host what was considered the "best World Cup in history," earning Trump's high regard. Even with widespread calls for Infantino's resignation, Trump will still support him remaining as FIFA president.
The relationship between Gianni Infantino and Donald Trump has been subject to much scrutiny, especially during this World Cup. The World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, saw U.S. striker Balogun receive a red card, and Trump claimed he called Infantino to express his displeasure.
The player's one-match suspension was subsequently suspended, sparking intense controversy regarding political interference in football.
“Jenny did a huge job of making this the best World Cup in history, and the president likes him a lot. I’m sure the president will do everything he can to help him,” a source told The Daily Telegraph. “I don’t think the president will change his opinion of him because he values loyalty very much. Jenny really did make this World Cup for the United States, and we cherish that.”
However, some believe that the relationship between the two has crossed the line.
David Davies, who held several key positions at the Football Association (FA) between 1994 and 2006, said: "My gut feeling tells me this has gone too far. What he's doing now is outrageous." He also pointed out that Infantino is a "politician-type" FIFA president who has long been "influenced" by Trump.
Despite reports that Trump would step in to help Gianni Infantino if he lost his job, the FIFA president did not have the support of political leaders in the UK.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham reiterated his view that Gianni Infantino is "not the right person to lead football" and urged him to resign. It is understood that, following the Welsh Football Association, the English Football Association is also preparing to send a letter withdrawing its support for Infantino's re-election.
Despite several organizations withdrawing their letters of support, no other candidates have announced their intention to challenge Infantino for the presidency next year.
