Fifa-Uefa rift deepens as Uefa threatens criminal complaint against Infantino
Uefa's lawyers have filed harshly worded documents in a US court over Fifa president Gianni Infantino's shelved investment plan, threatening a criminal complaint in Switzerland. The power struggle continues ahead of Fifa's presidential election next spring.
The conflict between Fifa president Gianni Infantino and Uefa has escalated further after Uefa's lawyers filed court papers in the United States containing sharp accusations over the now-abandoned plan to sell stakes in Fifa competitions to private investors. The documents accuse Infantino of actions rising to "criminal mismanagement" and describe the scheme as undervaluing the World Cup without an independent valuation or competitive process.
Uefa is seeking access to evidence and documents in the US to support potential legal action against Infantino in Switzerland. Those targeted include venture capital firm Thrive Capital and its founder Josh Kushner, who was earmarked as lead investor, as well as former Formula 1 chief Greg Maffei, described as a key commercial adviser on the deal.
Infantino retains support
Despite the pressure, Infantino has had a relatively strong week, receiving qualified backing from the Saudi Arabian Football Federation for his efforts to restore unity. Uefa also dropped its threat to boycott Fifa competitions after receiving assurances the plan would not be repeated. However, Uefa's move toward criminal proceedings marks a significant escalation in the dispute.
Neither Infantino nor Fifa have formally responded to the latest developments, with officials saying their focus is on the upcoming U20 Women's World Cup in Poland. Infantino, meanwhile, has continued a series of international visits seeking support.
Legal experts note it remains uncertain whether US courts will grant Uefa's requests, as Kushner could argue that confidentiality is needed to protect business interests. Past attempts to bring criminal charges against former Fifa leadership have historically failed.
Uefa says it wants to secure reforms in Fifa's governance and, should Infantino seek a fourth term in the spring election, will back a unified alternative candidate. A Fifa Council meeting is set for October, candidate nominations are due in November, and the election is scheduled for March.
