President Donald Trump issued a warning to FIFA, suggesting they’d make a grave mistake by considering the removal of embattled President Gianni Infantino. Trump took to Truth Social to express his support for Infantino, who is currently facing significant opposition from global soccer leaders after a controversial attempt to involve private equity investors in the men’s World Cup.

“FIFA would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing President Gianni Infantino,” Trump stated. He highlighted Infantino’s successful stewardship of what was claimed to be the most financially lucrative World Cup to date.

Trump’s comments were made in the context of his support for Infantino during the event, which saw the United States host the 2026 World Cup. This tournament notably achieved record attendance and revenue numbers, showcasing the USA’s ability to host grand sporting spectacles.

“He is fantastic, having just presided over the most successful World Cup, by four times, ever presented,” Trump said. “If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again!”

Despite Trump’s defense, Infantino’s situation is precarious. His proposal to create FIFA Forward Enterprise, aimed at selling 20% of World Cup commercial rights for $4.2 billion, backfired. The initiative faced immediate backlash from soccer leaders worldwide, who accused Infantino of trying to secretly monetize the sport’s most valuable assets. Infantino retracted the proposal, but the damage was done.

Organizations like UEFA, the AFC, and CONCACAF have been vocal in their opposition, citing deception and a failure to uphold responsibilities as core issues. European authorities are even contemplating a boycott of FIFA events and exploring the idea of establishing alternative tournaments.

Trump’s vocal support, however, raises questions about its impact on the controversy. His relationship with Infantino adds a layer of complexity to the already tense situation. Whether Infantino can weather the storm amid calls for his removal remains uncertain.

Trump’s stance clearly aligns with financial considerations, as he has appeared alongside Infantino at various World Cup-related events. The warning from Trump to FIFA centers on potential financial repercussions if Infantino is ousted.

For feedback, contact Alejandro Avila at [email protected] or follow on X: @alejandroaveela.