Infantino resignation call has intensified global football tensions after Javier Tebas publicly urged Gianni Infantino to step down, accusing football’s governing body of damaging the sport’s structural balance.
The criticism comes as a growing number of league executives in Europe contest the introduction of more tournaments around the world, claiming it is taking the sheen off the global game, endangering players and reducing revenue for clubs. At its heart is FIFA’s initiative to grow major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup, with suggestions for improved club competitions.
Tebas has been steadfast in claiming that La Liga has been and will be protecting the sustainability of the sport, due to the risk of over-centralization of international matches and the impact that would have on the competitiveness and commercial viability of the league. Infantino seems to be in strong position to maintain control, despite growing criticism.
In April, the FIFA president announced that he would seek a fourth term, and the next elections for the 2027-2031 period will be held in Morocco on March 18. Tebas admitted that Infantino has “a lot of support” from the national federations, who have the final say in many of the governance bodies in FIFA. The difference reflects a growing governance gap between the international football authorities and domestic league operators. Federations are focused on world domination and revenue growth while leagues such as La Liga are pushing for calendar protection, player load management and club value chain retention.
