UEFA Backs Any FIFA President Candidate Except Netanyahu or Trump Amid Infantino Controversy

European football leaders are rallying to replace FIFA President Gianni Infantino following his recent controversial plan to sell stakes in the World Cup, which involves associates of U.S. President Donald Trump and his family. According to the British Daily Telegraph on July 30, 2026, UEFA officials are seeking to recruit Nasser Al-Khelaifi, president of Paris Saint-Germain and the European Club Association, to challenge Infantino in the upcoming FIFA presidential election.

The plan has sparked significant backlash within the football community, prompting UEFA to hold an emergency meeting to consider boycotting the World Cup and efforts to oust Infantino. A senior European football figure told the Telegraph, "I will support anyone running against Infantino, except Trump or Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu." This statement highlights the political sensitivities surrounding the leadership contest.

Al-Khelaifi, who holds influential roles in UEFA, the ECA, and as chairman of Qatar's beIN media network, is seen as a candidate capable of leveraging Middle Eastern connections to build global support against Infantino. However, a representative for Al-Khelaifi quickly denied any intention to run for FIFA president, affirming his continued discreet support for global and European football institutions.

The Telegraph also noted that a Qatari candidacy would likely face harsh criticism due to FIFA's 2015 corruption scandals and ongoing human rights concerns in Qatar. The European Club Association, led by Al-Khelaifi, issued a statement expressing "serious concern" over FIFA's proposal, calling for calm and transparent dialogue. They criticized the lack of prior consultation, stating stakeholders learned about the plan through the media without warning. The controversy unfolds ahead of the 2026 World Cup, raising tensions within global football governance.