Hairline humour from Infantino as pressure grows over World Cup plan

FIFA president Gianni Infantino avoided answering questions about his future in the role by making jokes about his baldness, following the cancellation of a secret proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup.

Infantino was challenged over whether he would remain in office after allegations that he had betrayed football, but appeared unwilling to engage with serious questions, according to The Daily Mail.

The remarks came weeks after The Times revealed plans that could have generated millions of pounds for a new company linked to the commercialisation of parts of the World Cup. Infantino later abandoned the controversial proposal after it triggered widespread anger.

James Matthews, a Sky News reporter, asked Infantino whether he had betrayed football and why he did not resign. Infantino replied: “Your hair story is beautiful, thank you very much. See you at the hairdresser.”

The Daily Mail noted that both Infantino and Matthews are bald.

Pressure on Infantino to leave FIFA continues to build. UEFA has announced that it will boycott all FIFA competitions until Infantino departs, according to the report.

Proposed World Cup investment company

Reports in July said Infantino was considering selling parts of the World Cup to private-sector investors and establishing a new company. The proposed deal was reportedly capable of being valued at about £15bn.

The Times reported that Infantino could become commissioner of the company after his term as FIFA president ends in 2031. The position was described as potentially highly lucrative, with estimates suggesting it could earn him more than $50m a year.

The possible sale of stakes had reportedly been discussed by senior FIFA officials and prospective investors. Those named as being involved included Josh Kushner, the brother of Jared Kushner, who is the son-in-law of US president Donald Trump. Non-disclosure agreements were signed during the discussions.

JPMorgan was reported to be managing the process. The reports also said the Donald Trump administration was aware of the proposal and had been consulted.

Infantino subsequently cancelled the plans after strong opposition, including an internal revolt within FIFA.

Earlier this month, he received what was described as the “full support” of FIFA’s senior officials after calling them to an emergency meeting in Morocco.

The meeting was held in Sale after plans to sell £3.1bn worth of stakes in the World Cup were leaked the previous week. The emergency gathering came as the proposal faced mounting scrutiny from outside FIFA as well as resistance from within the organisation.

Infantino’s decision to abandon the proposal has not ended questions about his leadership or future. The FIFA president’s response to Matthews was instead the latest public exchange to draw attention to the continuing controversy surrounding the planned investment structure and the calls for him to step down.