Gianni Infantino, the current FIFA president, "cannot have a future at FIFA," said Claudius Schaefer, president of European Leagues, on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. Schaefer emphasized the need to reform world football's governing body and highlighted the responsibilities of its leader.

In an interview with The Athletic, Schaefer, whose organization represents 53 professional men's and women's football leagues, expressed deep concern about Infantino's leadership. "Here in Switzerland, we've had a close view of FIFA and it seems that the influence of the president has grown from year to year," he said. "Major decisions are taken without meaningful consultation with stakeholders who will be affected."

Schaefer's remarks come amid a bitter conflict among football governing bodies following FIFA's now-abandoned proposal to sell a portion of the World Cup's commercial rights. Infantino faces pressure to resign from three confederations: Europe’s UEFA, Asia’s AFC, and CONCACAF, which represents North and Central America and the Caribbean. These regional bodies have also discussed a potential vote of no confidence against him.

Concerns have been raised over the inaugural FIFA peace prize awarded to United States President Donald Trump in December 2025, and the overturning of a ban for USA forward Folarin Balogun during this year’s World Cup after a call from Trump. Additionally, controversies during the World Cup, including a notable red card issue, have added to the criticism.

Infantino is expected to seek re-election for a fourth term next year and will likely face stiff opposition. However, Schaefer stated it is more important to redefine the role of the FIFA president than merely replacing the officeholder.

Sources