FIFA refuses to commit to UEFA deadline over Infantino inquiries

The world football governing body has confirmed its intention to address concerns raised by European officials regarding President Gianni Infantino, yet it refused to guarantee a timeline for these responses ahead of the upcoming presidential election deadlines. This stance comes as UEFA presses for clarity on leadership issues and potential conflicts of interest within FIFA’s administrative structure.

Confidentiality cited in response delay

A spokesperson for FIFA emphasized that while replies to Council members are planned, the organization cannot discuss internal communications with the media due to strict confidentiality rules outlined in the FIFA Governance Regulations. The statement noted that respecting these regulations is essential for maintaining the integrity of the Council and its individual members, rejecting any engagement with third parties that might undermine this protocol.

UEFA Secretary General Theodore Theodoridis sent a formal letter to his FIFA counterpart, Mattias Grafstrom, on Monday. This correspondence, viewed by the Press Association, demanded answers from European representatives on the FIFA Council by November 2. That date falls sixteen days prior to the official cutoff for declaring candidacies for next year’s presidential vote.

Specific concerns detailed in UEFA letter

The delegates had previously confronted Infantino directly during a Council meeting in Zurich last week, after which they were directed to submit their grievances in writing. The UEFA letter argued that waiting until the next scheduled Council meeting on December 16 was unacceptable given the urgency of the matters at hand.

Key topics requiring immediate clarification include the controversial World Cup private investor plan and the extent of United States President Donald Trump’s influence on FIFA’s business operations. Additionally, the inquiry covers specific incidents such as the Folarin Balogun case, the half-time show at the World Cup final, and the implementation of hydration breaks during matches earlier this summer.

Election independence questioned

UEFA has publicly expressed a loss of confidence in Infantino’s management of the private investor scheme. The European governing body announced plans to identify a credible alternative candidate to challenge him in the forthcoming election.

The letter also scrutinized the impartiality of the electoral process itself. It highlighted that Bruno Chiomento, the chair of the electoral committee, has known Infantino for twenty years. Furthermore, Chiomento attended the entire five-week duration of the World Cup with all expenses covered by FIFA.

“In view of the importance of ensuring the independence and perceived impartiality of the electoral process, would FIFA consider Mr Chiomento’s recusal and replacement by his deputy for the duration of the presidential election?” the UEFA letter asked.