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FIFA Accuses UEFA of Launching 'Smear Campaign' Against Gianni Infantino

FIFA has accused UEFA of orchestrating a 'smear campaign' against its president Gianni Infantino amid legal disputes regarding a failed World Cup sell-off plan.

3 September 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: FIFA Accuses UEFA of Launching 'Smear Campaign' Against Gianni Infantino — Archive photoPhoto: Ank kumar · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

FIFA has publicly accused UEFA of initiating a 'smear campaign' against its president Gianni Infantino. This allegation arises in the context of ongoing legal disputes related to an aborted plan to sell part of the World Cup rights to private investors.

The accusation was made evident in a judicial document reportedly seen by various news agencies, including Reuters. The document highlights FIFA's response to what it perceives as an attempt by UEFA to undermine Infantino's reputation and decisions.

This development marks a significant escalation in the tensions between FIFA and UEFA, particularly following the controversy surrounding Infantino's proposals for the World Cup. The proposed sell-off was met with widespread criticism and was ultimately abandoned.

Sources indicate that FIFA's position includes not only a defense of Infantino but also a broader challenge to UEFA's motives. FIFA regards UEFA's actions as detrimental to the integrity of both the organization and the sport as a whole.

Reports suggest that this clash is not just limited to verbal exchanges but may also lead to further legal confrontations between the two governing bodies. FIFA's comments reflect its intent to combat what it views as an unjust attack from UEFA.

As the conflict unfolds, both organizations continue to be under scrutiny from the media and football fans around the world, particularly regarding their governance and the future of international football events.

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