German Football Association (DFB) President Bernd Neuendorf has labeled a recent letter from FIFA head Gianni Infantino a transparent strategy to secure his re-election next year. The letter, distributed to all 211 member associations, follows intense criticism of Infantino’s leadership, specifically regarding his failed attempt to sell a 20 percent stake in FIFA’s commercial rights—including the World Cup—to private investors. The controversial plan was abandoned in July following widespread pushback, including boycott threats and formal complaints from UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation, and CONCACAF.
In his correspondence, Infantino suggested an independent review of FIFA’s decision-making protocols and proposed a more collaborative approach involving confederations and other stakeholders. He insisted that the positions taken by member associations would not impact their standing or access to development and solidarity programs within the organization. Neuendorf, who also serves on the FIFA Council, acknowledged that while the governing body clearly recognizes the necessity for change, he remains highly critical of its current leader.
“Gianni Infantino is definitely not the right person to lead a reform process,” Neuendorf stated on Tuesday. “He has squandered all credibility.” Critics have long argued that Infantino acted in isolation throughout the investment debacle, failing to consult with continental confederations at any point. Consequently, UEFA has openly advocated for a leadership transition, citing a total loss of confidence in the Swiss president.
Despite this mounting pressure, Infantino faces a relatively clear path to victory in the March election. Sources familiar with internal discussions noted earlier this month that the incumbent maintains sufficient support to win another term, a reality that has led his political rivals to pivot their strategy toward limiting his presidential authority rather than forcing an exit. As the election approaches, the standoff continues between the FIFA hierarchy and European leadership who argue that the president’s recent overtures are merely designed to preserve his tenure. The report also notes that offering to discuss reforms within world football’s governing body – amid an ongoing crisis over his failed plan to sell a stake in the World Cup – is a mere ploy to get himself re-elected, Germany’s Football Association (DFB) President Bernd Neuendorf has said, a letter from FIFA President Gianni Infantino this week to all 211 members.
