Archive · 4 Aug 2026
Infantino Seeks Trump Support After Failed World Cup Stake Sale
Gianni Infantino is the boss of FIFA, the group that runs soccer worldwide.
He tried to sell part of the money from the World Cup to private investors, but the plan didn’t work.
After it failed, he called the former U.S. President Donald Trump to ask for help.
He also set up a private phone call with the U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio.
The whole thing has made people worry about whether Infantino can stay president of FIFA for another term.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino sought support from the Trump administration after his plan to sell a stake in World Cup commercial rights collapsed.
Infantino repeatedly tried to reach former President Donald Trump by phone since the proposal fell through on Friday.
He scheduled a private call with Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss the situation.
The failed plan aimed to unlock up to $4.2 billion by selling about 20% of a new commercial entity for FIFA competitions.
The collapse has intensified scrutiny of Infantino’s bid for a second term as FIFA president (2027‑2031).
- Who
- Gianni Infantino, Donald Trump, Marco Rubio
- What
- Infantino sought support after his plan to sell a stake in World Cup commercial rights collapsed
- When
- After the plan collapsed on Friday; scheduled call after 9 a.m. ET
- Where
- United States, Trump administration and Secretary of State office
- Why
- To gain political backing amid criticism and to salvage the failed initiative
- FIFA President
- Gianni Infantino
- Failed Plan
- Sell 20% stake in new commercial entity
- Targeted Funding
- $4.2 billion
- Political Figures Contacted
- Donald Trump, Marco Rubio
- Collapse Date
- Friday
Sources
FIFA's Infantino Sought Trump Backing After Failed World Cup Sell-Off Plan: Report
FIFA President Gianni Infantino seeks Trump’s backing after World Cup rights plan fails
Has Gianni Infantino Approached Donald Trump After FIFA World Cup Selloff Plans Put Leadership At Risk?
Infantino sought Trump backing after failed World Cup sell-off plan, NY Post reports
