Saudi soccer body says it supports FIFA president Gianni Infantino 'at this time'
SAFF welcomed FIFA’s apology and reversal of a $20 billion deal, saying direct talks are needed to restore unity in the sport.
- On Thursday, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation posted a statement supporting FIFA President Gianni Infantino, marking his first major public backing from a key nation since his recent crisis.
- The Asian Football Confederation, UEFA, and CONCACAF condemned Infantino this past month for "deception" and "breach of trust" involving secret negotiations to sell a 20% stake in a planned FIFA commercial subsidiary.
- Welcoming the decision not to proceed, SAFF said it "welcomes the acknowledgement of mistakes, the apology, the decision not to proceed" with the $20 billion project after remaining notably quiet during weeks of turmoil.
- Federation leaders urged FIFA officials to hold "direct face-to-face dialogue" with all concerns addressed openly to restore unity across the global football family following the internal disputes.
- During his 10-year presidency, Infantino has built close ties with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed, helping steer the 2034 World Cup toward the kingdom, which anchors his administrative strategy.
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17 Articles
The Board of Directors of the Saudi Arabia Football Federation renews its support for the President of Fifa, Gianni Infantino. (ANSA)
The next World Cup host Saudi Arabia has pledged its support to the controversial FIFA President Gianni Infantino – albeit with a time limit. "At this time, SAFF supports the ongoing efforts of FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the FIFA leadership to restore unity in the football family and to continue the growth of the game for the benefit of all," said a meeting at the National Football Association. Infantino's achievements for football over…
Saudi Arabia backs Infantino amid fallout from failed Fifa investment plan
Saudi Arabia, the hosts of the 2034 men's World Cup, threw its support behind Fifa chief Gianni Infantino on Thursday as he continues to face criticism over the collapse of the governing body's controversial Fifa Forward Enterprise...
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