**Infantino Seeks Trump Administration Support Following World Cup Rights Plan Collapse**
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reportedly sought backing from the Trump administration amid escalating criticism following the abandonment of a controversial plan to sell a stake in World Cup commercial rights. The New York Post reported on Monday that Infantino has made several unsuccessful attempts to reach former President Donald Trump by phone since the proposal's collapse last Friday.
Sources familiar with the matter indicated that Infantino felt increasingly isolated due to a wave of negative media coverage surrounding the failed initiative. FIFA has not issued any immediate comments regarding the situation.
The plan, which aimed to generate up to $4.2 billion from private investors by selling a roughly 20% stake in a new entity responsible for overseeing competitions including the World Cup, faced significant resistance from various stakeholders. Following the backlash, Infantino and FIFA retreated from the proposal, prompting speculation about the implications for Infantino's future within the organization.
As Infantino prepares for a potential re-election bid for FIFA president from 2027 to 2031, the scrutiny surrounding his leadership has intensified. The failed sell-off plan has raised questions about his ability to navigate FIFA's complex landscape and maintain support among its members.
Infantino's relationship with Trump has been a point of interest, particularly as the two have appeared together at major soccer events, including the recent World Cup co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Their bond was notably highlighted in December 2025 when Infantino awarded Trump the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, marking him as the first recipient of the honor.
The proposed deal to sell a stake in FIFA's commercial assets was set to be anchored by Thrive Capital, a firm founded by Joshua Kushner, who is the brother of Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner. This connection has drawn additional attention to the failed plan and its implications for FIFA's governance.
In an effort to secure support, Infantino reportedly scheduled private discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. However, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs Dylan Johnson later stated on social media platform X that there were "no plans" for Rubio to engage in a conversation with Infantino, contradicting earlier reports about a scheduled call.
As FIFA navigates the fallout from this failed initiative, the organization faces increased pressure to reassess its strategies and leadership direction moving forward. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as Infantino seeks to stabilize his position within the global soccer governing body.