On August 10, former US President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, praising FIFA President Gianni Infantino as "great" and crediting him with leading "the most successful World Cup ever, 4 times more successful than previous editions."

"FIFA would make a serious mistake if it sought to oust President Gianni Infantino for any reason," the former US president stated. "If he leaves his position, the World Cup will never be as successful or profitable again!"

The post came as Infantino faces pressure amid accusations and criticism surrounding a plan to sell commercial rights shares of the World Cup, even though the proposal was cancelled.

Former US President Donald Trump (right) and FIFA President Gianni Infantino lift the 2026 World Cup trophy at a stadium in New Jersey on July 19. *Photo: AFP*

On August 10, the presidents of the Asian, European, and North, Central American and Caribbean football federations published an open letter, alleging that Infantino had betrayed trust and calling for an independent and comprehensive investigation into the events. This letter was widely interpreted as an implicit call for Infantino's removal.

Trump's support for President Infantino stands in contrast to the reaction from the US Soccer Federation, which issued a statement criticizing the FIFA head.

Earlier, Infantino had proposed a plan to separate the commercial rights of the World Cup, then sell 20% of the shares to private investors to generate approximately 4,2 billion USD. He believed this would significantly increase financial resources for football development.

However, the FIFA president did not consult with relevant stakeholders and promised federations supporting the plan before September 19 would receive an additional maximum of 20 million USD, along with greater support over the next three World Cup cycles.

The proposal immediately faced a wave of opposition from several continental football federations, forcing FIFA to cancel the plan.

Infantino, who faces re-election next March, has denied accusations of wrongdoing. FIFA also voiced support for its president, describing the wave of criticism against him as "an attempt by some parties to undermine" the organization.

Other football organizations, including the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL), also share Trump's stance in supporting President Infantino.

Huyen Le (According to AFP, France 24, Guardian)