UEFA is preparing to file criminal claims in Switzerland against FIFA president Gianni Infantino and possibly other FIFA officials over the World Cup investor-deal plan routed through a private investment vehicle.

UEFA has sought discovery in the United States from Thrive Capital Management and has pressed for a foreign proceeding against FIFA in Florida related to a $4.2 billion plan for a 20% stake in a subsidiary handling FIFA’s commercial events.

UEFA argues the enterprise value cited for the deal was improbably low—about $20 billion—and contends a valuation above $30 billion is supportable by FIFA’s financials, market data, and concerns about a non-competitive valuation process and a Sept. 19 deadline for member association approvals.

The battle over leadership spans multiple regions and years, signaling a protracted struggle rather than a quick fix.

The article places the fight in a broader political context with rising right-wing influence in upcoming elections and includes a journalistic appeal to support independent journalism and civil society.

Infantino continued campaigning, visiting the Dominican Republic and Vietnam to meet FIFA members despite cautions from a regional leader.

The power struggle within world football persists, with ongoing uncertainty about leadership and the path ahead before FIFA elections in March 2027.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar’s football bodies show divergent support, illustrating a complex regional dynamic around Infantino.

Many see Infantino’s removal as requiring governance reforms at FIFA and note divisions among Confederations, clubs, and national associations about the best way forward.

Infantino faces mounting pressure as UEFA, AFC, and CONCACAF criticize him, while some AFC and CONCACAF members and several African and South American federations still back him, leaving re-election contest outcomes uncertain.

Infantino seeks a fourth term in March but faces growing opposition from major confederations while retaining support from CONMEBOL and CAF.

Europe’s national teams decided to participate in FIFA competitions despite tensions, signaling a tactical retreat from a formal boycott.