FIFPRO, the global players' union, has publicly criticized FIFA President Gianni Infantino, alleging a "profound abuse of presidential power" in relation to the controversial FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative.

Concerns Over FIFA Forward Enterprise

In a statement released on August 7, 2026, FIFPRO expressed its discontent regarding the shelving of the FIFA Forward Enterprise, a proposal aimed at privatizing the FIFA World Cup. The players' body emphasized that the initiative was developed in secrecy and negotiated without the knowledge of key stakeholders, including the FIFA Council, Member Associations, and players. FIFPRO stated, "FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) is gone. The abuse of power that produced it is not. Governance reforms, not a cover-up, are urgently needed."

FIFA's Response and Ongoing Support for Infantino

FIFA has acknowledged the handling of the FIFA Forward Enterprise matter and has apologized to its member associations. Despite this, FIFA's leadership has unanimously backed President Infantino, who reiterated his confidence in FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom and the administration. Following a meeting in Rabat, Morocco, FIFA stated that the leadership reaffirmed Infantino as the only official elected by the 211 FIFA Member Associations.

FIFPRO's Critique of FIFA's Governance

FIFPRO expressed concern over FIFA's response, arguing that the organization has downplayed a significant governance failure by framing it as an issue of "processes and communications" that need improvement. The players' union highlighted that FIFA's admission of error, while claiming compliance with its regulatory framework, serves as an indictment of the current governance structure.

The ongoing tensions between FIFPRO and FIFA underscore the need for transparency and reform within the organization, as stakeholders continue to seek accountability in the governance of football.