Portuguese football legend Luís Figo is adding his voice to the growing demands for FIFA president Gianni Infantino to resign following his controversial proposal to sell the World Cup to private investors.
Figo, widely regarded as one of the finest players of his era with a remarkable career at clubs like Sporting CP, Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan, has echoed calls for Infantino’s resignation.
On Tuesday, former Arsenal manager and present FIFA chief of global football development, Arsène Wenger, distanced himself from Infantino’s initiative, which faced opposition from FIFA confederations, including UEFA, who threatened to boycott the World Cup if the proposal was enacted.
In a pointed social media statement issued on Wednesday, Figo called for Infantino to resign from his position.
“Today, I stand with many others in our sport in urging Gianni Infantino to resign as FIFA President,” Figo stated.
“Infantino has undermined the office he vowed to elevate. He has lied, misled, and attempted to benefit himself at the cost of the game he is meant to serve.
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“He has alienated his senior staff, his most trusted advisors, and the vast majority of those dedicated to this sport, including even former FIFA Peace Prize recipient [Donald Trump].
“While his dignity may be irreparably damaged, saving football is still possible. He must step down. Immediately.”
UEFA has also suggested the possibility of legal action against Infantino regarding the proposal, according to sources speaking with ESPN.
The Football Associations of England and Wales are among those that have withdrawn their support for Infantino.