By SUNTV Global Channel
ZURICH, SWITZERLAND – Portuguese football legend and former FIFA World Player of the Year Luís Figo has called on FIFA President Gianni Infantino to resign, accusing him of damaging the credibility of world football and placing personal interests above the sport.
In a strongly worded statement posted on social media, Figo said Infantino’s leadership has undermined the integrity of FIFA and argued that the organization needs new leadership to restore trust among players, officials and football fans worldwide.
The former Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter Milan star alleged that recent developments within FIFA have exposed serious concerns about transparency and governance, insisting that the football governing body must be held to higher standards.
Figo’s criticism comes amid growing controversy over a now-withdrawn proposal to commercialize FIFA’s major tournaments through a private investment structure reportedly valued at around $20 billion. The proposal attracted widespread opposition from football stakeholders, including regional governing bodies and former players, who warned that such a move could hand excessive influence over the sport’s biggest competitions to private investors.
According to reports, the proposal faced significant resistance from within FIFA and across the global football community, leading to its withdrawal after mounting criticism.
Figo maintained that football’s most prestigious competitions, including the FIFA World Cup, should remain under transparent and accountable governance for the benefit of the global game rather than commercial interests.
The comments add to increasing scrutiny of Infantino’s leadership as debates continue over FIFA’s future direction and governance. While Infantino has defended efforts to explore new commercial opportunities for the organization, critics argue that any major restructuring should involve broad consultation with football stakeholders around the world.
With pressure mounting from prominent figures in the sport, the controversy is expected to remain a major talking point as FIFA faces renewed calls for greater accountability and institutional reform.
