Uefa escalates legal battle against Infantino over shelved investment plan
Uefa has filed court documents in the United States accusing Fifa president Gianni Infantino of criminal mismanagement and fraud related to a proposed sale of competition stakes. The plan, known as Fifa Forward Enterprise, collapsed within days of being revealed. Infantino received backing from Saudi Arabia's football federation, while Uefa withdrew its boycott threat after receiving assurances.
Uefa’s filing in U.S. courts seeks access to records from Fifa, Thrive Capital, and Josh Kushner, the venture investor tied to the abandoned Fifa Forward Enterprise plan. The documents allege the proposed sale undervalued the World Cup and was conducted without an open auction or independent valuation, with language accusing Infantino of “criminal mismanagement” and acting for personal benefit.
The plan collapsed days after its reveal, yet tensions persist. Infantino has since received public support from Saudi Arabia’s federation, while Uefa withdrew its boycott threat after assurances. Meanwhile, Infantino continues international visits, framing them as unity efforts, as Uefa’s legal push signals a prolonged power struggle rather than quick resolution.
This dispute could reshape governance and trust in global soccer’s leadership. If Uefa’s legal claims gain traction, Fifa’s credibility with member associations, sponsors, and fans may erode, potentially affecting tournament planning and commercial partnerships. The public airing of corruption allegations may also pressure other confederations to reassess alliances, though Infantino’s backing from key federations suggests the conflict could deepen divisions rather than prompt immediate change.