Infantino, Grafstrom Issue Apology Letter After World Cup Sale Plan Backlash

Gianni Infantino and FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom have jointly signed a letter apologising for “mistakes made” in the controversial plan to sell the World Cup, released after an emergency meeting of FIFA board members in Morocco on Wednesday.

The letter states: “We acknowledge that errors were also made after the proposal was leaked to media.” It adds: “We sincerely apologise for these errors and commit to them not happening again.” The document confirms FIFA will conduct a necessary review, with findings presented to the FIFA Council at its next scheduled meeting.

Board reaffirms support amid leadership crisis

Despite widespread calls for Infantino’s resignation—including formal demands from UEFA and CONCACAF—the letter declares that Grafstrom and FIFA’s Management Board “reaffirm their full support” for the president. The crisis talks were initiated as Infantino’s position appears under threat; removing him requires backing from 106 nations.

Defence of legality and integrity

The letter explicitly rebuts allegations of misconduct, asserting the World Cup investment scheme “did not break any rules.” It further states that following the plan’s withdrawal, FIFA “will no longer tolerate any attacks on its integrity.” The document frames the initiative as legally compliant while conceding procedural missteps in its handling post-leak.

The letter was issued following the emergency gathering in Morocco, where board members discussed measures to “help restore confidence in the organisation” and “continue to develop the game around the world.” Infantino has since been photographed smiling at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.