FIFA President Gianni Infantino's position has become increasingly untenable following the collapse of his plan to sell a stake in the World Cup's commercial rights to private investors. The proposal, described as ludicrous by former FIFA vice-president Jim Boyce, faced widespread opposition from CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation, with Boyce urging the governing body to focus instead on the interests of fans.
The scheme was largely scuppered when UEFA's 55-member nations agreed to boycott the World Cup and all other FIFA competitions. This pushback has left Infantino's reign in severe peril, with the head of Europe's professional football leagues stating that his leadership position is now untenable.
In response, European nations are planning to increase pressure on Infantino through a mass withdrawal of letters supporting his re-election. There is a widespread appetite across Europe to ensure he is quickly removed from his post as the mood remains febrile.
Despite the growing turmoil, Infantino recently appeared at the World Cup final near New York alongside U.S. President Donald Trump, who has referred to him as the King of Soccer. However, the two men were met with some boos from the crowd as they walked across the turf to present the medals and trophy.