Former UEFA president Michel Platini has urged Gianni Infantino to resign from his position as FIFA president.
Platini has been critical of Infantino’s leadership, asserting that the FIFA president has neglected his duty to uphold the integrity of the game.
Advertisement
He pointed to contentious decisions made during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, such as added breaks during matches and the extension of half-time in the final to 30 minutes.
Additionally, Platini criticized the controversial management of a red card situation involving American striker Folarin Balogun, whose ban was rescinded following an intervention by then-President Donald Trump.
Infantino’s standing has been further jeopardized by his controversial proposal to allow private investors to hold stakes in FIFA.
As the 2027 FIFA presidential election approaches, UEFA, along with CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), has reportedly intensified its opposition to Infantino.
Advertisement
Since taking office in 2016, Infantino is seeking another term during the organization’s upcoming congress in Morocco set for March 2027.
Platini believes that UEFA might have to resort to legal action against Infantino, which he perceives as a potentially more effective strategy than attempting to oust the FIFA president through sports authorities.
In the meantime, UEFA is reportedly preparing to file a complaint for ‘disloyal management’ against Infantino under Swiss law while actively searching for a candidate to challenge him in 2027.
“This issue won’t be resolved, and he won’t be removed by the sports authorities,” Platini remarked (via RMC Sport).
Advertisement
“If UEFA intends to bring Infantino down, it will likely be through the courts. I’ve always known he has a strong appetite for money and power.”
Once considered a potential successor to FIFA’s presidency, Platini was barred from running due to fraud allegations, although he was acquitted in Switzerland in August 2025.
Platini continues to harbor a strained relationship with Infantino, accusing him of profiting from his downfall and has filed a complaint in France alleging defamation and influence peddling.