Javier Tebas has declared that Gianni Infantino’s role as FIFA president is no longer viable, asserting that he is “undermining the fundamental nature of football” while advocating for significant reforms at the upper echelons of the sport.
The president of La Liga, who has long been an outspoken opponent of the current FIFA administration, stated that “the Infantino era has come to an end” and emphasized the need for governance of the sport to extend beyond the current “elite” circles.
Tebas’s comments are in line with ongoing criticism aimed at Infantino, particularly following his attempts to pursue private investment in the World Cup, which were ultimately thwarted.
In a discussion with the French publication Le Monde, Tebas reiterated his call for Infantino’s resignation, a request he initially made after the World Cup and prior to the controversy regarding the potential stake sale. “In my view, Gianni Infantino’s time has long passed,” he stated.
“My criticism is not solely based on recent events; I have observed his management style for quite some time, even if others are only now beginning to recognize it. Gianni Infantino does not foster the growth of football. In fact, his initiatives are eroding the core of the sport: the national leagues.”
“Football encompasses more than just the elite. For me, the Infantino era is finished. What remains to be seen is when this will occur and how the transition will take shape. I hope it leads to a true transformation rather than merely swapping individuals in and out.”
Infantino is facing increasing pressure to maintain his position amidst a cohesive effort by European football leaders and other officials to remove him. UEFA has indicated that they view Infantino’s continued presidency as untenable, the Norwegian Football Association has called for his resignation, and several European football associations have retracted their endorsements for him to serve another term at FIFA.
On Saturday, UEFA confirmed that a “departure payment” had been issued to a female employee who allegedly had a relationship with Infantino during his tenure as general secretary over a decade ago.
According to the Daily Telegraph, the woman received a substantial sum following the alleged relationship, which FIFA has denied, labeling the claims as “categorically untrue.”
FIFA responded on Saturday evening by accusing Infantino’s detractors of attempting to oust him before the upcoming presidential election in March. “Those lacking the backing of FIFA’s member associations should not try to achieve through allegations, insinuations, or misinformation what they cannot accomplish through FIFA’s established democratic processes,” the statement read.
Infantino has also found support from influential nations outside of Europe, including World Cup co-host Mexico and final participant Argentina. UEFA has indicated that a potential boycott of all FIFA tournaments is still on the table, with the women’s Under-20 World Cup set to commence in Poland on September 5.
