Portuguese football legend, Luís Figo has called for Gianni Infantino to resign as FIFA president, becoming the latest high-profile figure to criticise his failed proposal to sell stakes in FIFA competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors.
Figo, regarded as one of the finest players of his generation after successful spells with Sporting CP, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter Milan, said Infantino had “debased the office” of FIFA president and no longer had the confidence of the football community.
In a strongly worded statement posted on social media on Wednesday, Figo accused Infantino of misleading the football world and prioritising personal interests over the sport.
“Today I join others from across our game and call for Gianni Infantino to resign as FIFA President.
“It is too late to save his dignity but it is not too late to save football. He should go. Now.”
Figo’s intervention follows growing opposition to Infantino’s investment proposal, which was blocked after strong resistance from FIFA’s continental confederations. UEFA was among the fiercest critics and has reportedly raised the possibility of legal action over the plan.
The backlash has also seen the The Football Association, and the Football Association of Wales withdraw their support for Infantino, adding to mounting pressure on the FIFA president as questions over his leadership continue to grow.
Oluwagbemisola Babalola
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