FIFA accuses UEFA of 'smear campaign' as legal battle over Infantino plan escalates

FIFA and UEFA remain locked in a high-stakes dispute over FIFA Forward Enterprise, a plan to sell a stake in World Cup commercial rights that sparked widespread backlash and led UEFA to threaten potential criminal action. UEFA has filed documents in the United States seeking disclosures related to the plan, while FIFA has responded with motions to intervene and to dismiss or delay those requests, labeling UEFA’s filings as part of a smear campaign and arguing they lack standing. The core issue centers on a proposed 20% stake sale valued at about 4.2 billion dollars, with UEFA accusing FIFA of mismanagement and governance concerns that could undermine smaller nations. FIFA contends that UEFA’s actions are aimed at preserving European dominance in football, with Infantino at the center as he seeks re-election amid the controversy. The conflict has spooled into a pattern of public accusations and cross-border legal maneuvering after the plan’s withdrawal.