President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to FIFA, urging the organization not to replace its president, Gianni Infantino. Speaking on Truth Social on August 11, 2026, Trump called Infantino "fantastic" and highlighted his role in overseeing what he described as the most successful World Cup ever presented.

"FIFA would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing President Gianni Infantino," Trump posted. "He is fantastic, having just presided over the most successful World Cup, by four times, ever presented. If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again!"

Infantino faces significant opposition from global soccer leaders following a controversial plan to sell a portion of the men's World Cup to private equity investors. Despite this internal revolt, Trump’s comments underscore his support for Infantino’s leadership.

The 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, was noted for packed stadiums and record-breaking revenues. Trump and Infantino have a history of collaboration, including a meeting in the Oval Office in March 2025 related to the FIFA World Cup and a reception at Trump Tower in New York City in July 2026.

Meanwhile, UEFA President Michel Platini has been suspended for 90 days by FIFA's ethics committee amid investigations into misconduct within the global football body, signaling ongoing turmoil within FIFA’s leadership.

Sources