On Monday, August 3, 2026, FIFA President Gianni Infantino sought backing from the Trump administration after his abandoned plan to sell a stake in the World Cup's commercial rights, according to the New York Post, as reported by CNA Latest News.

Infantino reportedly made multiple unsuccessful attempts to contact U.S. President Donald Trump by phone since the proposal's collapse on Friday, July 31, 2026. The FIFA chief reportedly felt "isolated" amid intense negative media coverage.

The New York Post also reported that Infantino scheduled private talks with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, with sources confirming that Infantino was set to hold a call with America's top diplomat just after 9 a.m. on August 3.

The failed initiative involved FIFA's plan to raise up to $4.2 billion from private investors by selling approximately a 20% stake in a new entity overseeing competitions including the World Cup. The plan was abandoned after strong resistance from stakeholders.

With the plan shelved, attention has shifted to the potential consequences for the 56-year-old Swiss Infantino, whose bid for another term as FIFA president from 2027 to 2031 is now under increased scrutiny.

FIFA had no immediate comment on the matter, and the White House did not respond immediately to requests for comment.

Sources