Figo Demands Infantino's Resignation Amid FIFA Commercial Rights Controversy

Luis FigoPlayer·Luis Figo, the iconic former Real MadridTeam·Real Madrid and BarcelonaTeam·Barcelona player, has issued a powerful call for the resignation of FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Figo's demand comes in the wake of significant controversy surrounding Infantino's leadership, particularly a contentious proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup's commercial rights to private equity.

In a scathing editorial published in The Daily Mail on August 5, 2026, Figo accused Infantino of engaging in "the lowest, most deceitful and cravenly self-interested behaviour I have ever witnessed." The Ballon d'Or winner asserted that Infantino has debased the office of FIFA President, alleging a pattern of lying, deceiving, and attempting to enrich himself and his associates at the expense of the sport. Figo highlighted a "litany of abuses" of football's reputation under Infantino, including the suspension and reversal of disciplinary decisions and breaches of the laws of the game.

"I could write 10,000 words on the problems at FIFA. But the solution needs only three: Infantino must go"— Luis Figo.

The core of the controversy intensified after Infantino proposed the creation of a "FIFA Forward Enterprise." This entity was intended to facilitate the sale of a 20% stake in FIFA's commercial rights, including those of the prestigious World Cup, for an estimated $4.2 billion. The plan faced widespread criticism due to a notable lack of transparency and consultation with key stakeholders. Reports suggested that Infantino was positioning himself for a lucrative commissioner role within this new commercial entity, further fueling the backlash.

Although Infantino eventually withdrew the plan due to mounting opposition, the calls for his resignation have persisted. Real MadridTeam·Real Madrid, Figo's former club, welcomed FIFA's decision to scrap the controversial investor plan. The Spanish giants expressed gratitude to UEFA, confederations, and federations for their unified stance against the project, stating that their collective action had "protected football at a decisive moment." Real MadridTeam·Real Madrid emphasized that international football and the World Cup are public interest events belonging to nations, fans, and society, and should not be treated as mere financial assets for commercialization.

While the immediate threat of a boycott of future FIFA tournaments by UEFA and other federations has subsided with the plan's withdrawal, the broader implications for football governance remain. Calls for Infantino's departure continue from various football bodies and prominent figures. Infantino's current term is set to run through 2027, and he is widely expected to seek a fourth term, reportedly with significant support from numerous national federations. Meanwhile, Real MadridTeam·Real Madrid concluded their 2025/26 season in second place in La LigaCompetition·La Liga with 77 points, reaching the Round of 16 in the Copa del ReyCompetition·Copa del Rey and the Quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions LeagueCompetition·Champions League.