FIFA President Gianni Infantino finds himself in an increasingly precarious position, with widespread dissent threatening his leadership and even former US President Donald Trump reportedly turning his back. Once a close ally, Trump’s distancing marks a significant blow as Infantino battles a growing lack of confidence from within the footballing community, largely fueled by controversial privatization plans for the World Cup.

For months leading up to the 2026 World Cup, Infantino cultivated a close relationship with the former US President, even drawing criticism for wearing a MAGA-style hat. However, that alliance appears to have fractured. The New York Post reported on August 3, 2026, that Infantino has been “begging” the Trump administration for support to retain his office, making repeated, ignored phone calls to Trump himself. Infantino has reportedly scheduled private talks with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, though the State Department has denied any such call between Infantino and the administration has taken place. One source, speaking on the condition of anonymity, suggested Infantino’s motives are clear: “He wanted to get online with the secretary and talk about how soccer can be a form of soft power for America. But we all know that it is about job protection. It is not about anything else at this point.” Trump, for his part, has publicly denied any discussions, stating, “I never spoke to him.”

Privatization scheme fuels dissent

At the heart of the growing dissatisfaction is Infantino’s ambitious, yet contentious, plan to privatize the World Cup. This scheme has been met with significant resistance, most notably from European football’s governing body, UEFA, which not only rejected the proposal but also declared a lack of confidence in Infantino’s leadership. US Soccer also supported CONCACAF’s call to reject the proposal. Reports indicate that Joshua Kushner, brother of the US President’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, is reportedly “bankrolling” the World Cup sale plan. This widespread opposition has seen nations begin to formally withdraw support, with the Football Association of Wales (FAW) being the first to do so. Other European nations, including Sweden and Serbia, have also issued statements indicating their dwindling confidence in the FIFA chief.

A job on the line

Infantino, who is said to feel “isolated” by the media backlash, now faces a significant challenge to his tenure. His job is reportedly at risk, and what was once expected to be an unopposed run in the March 2027 elections now looks increasingly unlikely. Beyond the privatization scheme, Infantino’s leadership has also faced scrutiny over other interventions, such as FIFA’s decision to suspend USMNT striker Folarin Balogun’s red card ban, allowing him to play against Belgium. As another source noted, “He is looking for allies of note to publicly support him.” With prominent figures like Donald Trump distancing themselves and key footballing bodies rejecting his initiatives, Infantino’s grip on power appears to be weakening rapidly.

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