The Trump administration has distanced itself from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who is reportedly scrambling to save his job amidst calls for his resignation. Infantino is facing a possible vote of no confidence from FIFA members following a backlash to his plan to sell stakes in a new subsidiary holding commercial rights to the World Cup.
A spokesperson for US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Dylan Johnson, Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs, stated on social media that there are "no plans for @SecRubio to speak with Infantino and there is no call this morning." This follows reports that Infantino sought support from President Trump, with whom he has cultivated a close relationship.
Last week, Trump denied discussing Infantino's sell-off plans, which reportedly would have involved investment from Joshua Kushner, the brother of Trump's son-in-law. Infantino's proposals have been rebuked by governing bodies Uefa, Concacaf, and AFC, citing a lack of consultation. His senior advisor has quit, and his chief operating officer reportedly criticised the plan, claiming Infantino kept it secret from senior staff.
European football associations, including the English and Welsh FAs, have indicated they will withdraw their previous support for Infantino ahead of next year's FIFA presidential election. Infantino will face a vote of no confidence at an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) if more than 20 per cent of FIFA's 211 FAs, or 19 members of the FIFA Council, call for his removal.