Washington, USA – US President Donald Trump denied having any talks with FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding the proposal to create a new company to manage the commercial rights for FIFA tournaments.
Trump’s remarks came as FIFA’s project continues to generate controversy, after the international federation unveiled plans to establish a new commercial entity valued at approximately $20 billion, with up to 20% of its shares offered to private investors.
During a cabinet meeting at the presidential retreat Camp David, Trump was asked whether he had discussed the plan with Infantino, to which he replied tersely: “No, I have never spoken to him”.
The US president’s remarks come amid growing opposition to the project within the football community. Several continental federations, most notably UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation, and CONCACAF, have announced their rejection of the proposal, arguing that it raises concerns about the future management of FIFA tournaments and its governance mechanisms.
The project also faced criticism from within FIFA itself, after one of Gianni Infantino’s top advisors announced his resignation in protest against the plan, arguing that selling a stake in the new entity would not serve the long-term future of football.
