UEFA is preparing legal action against FIFA president Gianni Infantino, linked to his abandoned plan to bring private investment into the World Cup and a proposal described by UEFA as involving a “sell-off” of future World Cup-related stakes or profits. Multiple outlets report UEFA is pursuing a criminal complaint connected to alleged financial or governance mismanagement.
According to an AFP report seen by media, UEFA is preparing a request to gather evidence for a potential criminal complaint in Switzerland, where both organizations are based, and is seeking permission to proceed under Article 158 of the Swiss Criminal Code for “criminal mismanagement.” Outlets also say the complaint is linked to the FIFA “Forward Enterprise” (FFE) plan. UEFA is reported to seek internal FIFA documents and communications, including governance and approval processes, and related materials surrounding a late-July meeting of FIFA officials.
While outlets broadly agree on UEFA’s intent to pursue criminal proceedings, some differ in emphasis. Several highlight UEFA’s efforts to pressure Infantino ahead of his re-election bid, while France 24 reports UEFA has suspended a threatened World Cup boycott after receiving assurances from FIFA, though it says it will keep pressure on Infantino. Other reports describe UEFA’s broader campaign to remove him from the FIFA presidency.
