The Portuguese legend harshly criticizes the president of the organization and demands his immediate departure due to the plan to sell commercial shares of the World Cup to private investors
The world of football is undergoing a new institutional shake-up. Luis Figo, one of the most respected figures in the sport, publicly and directly demanded the immediate resignation of the infamous Gianni Infantino from the presidency of FIFA.
The Portuguese held nothing back: "Infantino's behavior is the lowest, most deceitful, and cowardly selfish I've ever seen. Nothing prevents him from pleasing his friends, and he must go NOW."
The accusation came through a column published in the British newspaper Daily Mail. There, Figo stated that Infantino has lied and tried to enrich himself at the expense of football, the very sport he is supposed to protect.
"I could write 10,000 words about FIFA's problems. But the solution only needs three: Infantino must go," the former player expressed.
The trigger for this stance was the controversial plan by the president to sell commercial shares of the World Cup to private investors.
"None of this is a surprise. Considering the litany of abuses he has inflicted on the reputation of football, from suspending and reversing disciplinary decisions to violating the laws of the game during a halftime show, nothing prevents him from pleasing his friends," he said.
Figo stated: "It is also not a surprise to read the comments of (the president of the Jordan Football Association), Prince Ali, highlighting the mafia-like behavior of FIFA under Infantino; obstructing the work and funding of his Football Association to ensure a nomination letter so that the reign of terrible personal interests can continue."
According to the former Real Madrid and Barcelona player, that operation represented an attempt to prioritize personal gain over the interests of the game. Figo's message comes amid a crisis meeting of the governing body of international football.
In addition to posting the text on his social media, the historic forward stated that Infantino has already lost the support of his closest advisors and a large part of the global football community. Popular pressure and confederations like UEFA forced the leader to backtrack on his intentions. However, the reputational damage is considered irreparable at the highest levels of the sport.
A strong call to action
Figo concluded his intervention with a clear and unambiguous call. “It is too late to save his dignity, but not to save football. Infantino must go now,” the Portuguese declared. The phrase summarizes the tone of a text that leaves no room for ambiguity about his stance.
