US President Donald Trump has warned that Fifa would be making a “terrible mistake” if it removes Gianni Infantino as president of world football’s governing body.
Trump’s comments came as pressure continues to grow on Infantino following the collapse of a controversial Fifa investment plan.
In a post on social media, Trump said Infantino had done an excellent job and should remain in charge of Fifa.
“Fifa would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing president Gianni Infantino,” Trump said.
He added that Infantino had overseen what he described as the most successful World Cup ever.
“If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again,” Trump said.
The 2026 World Cup was hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, with Spain winning the tournament after defeating Argentina in the final.
Trump had previously said he had not discussed the controversial Fifa Forward Enterprise plan with Infantino.
The proposal would have created a new company to manage the commercial and ticketing rights of Fifa competitions, including the World Cup. Under the plan, 21 per cent of the company would have been sold to a private investment firm.
Thrive Eternal, an American investment company founded by Joshua Kushner, was expected to lead the proposed investment group. Kushner is the brother of Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law.
Fifa later abandoned the controversial plan following strong opposition from several football bodies.
Uefa, Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation have accused Fifa of breaking trust through what they described as deception over the proposal.
In a joint letter, the three confederations said trust had been damaged when an individual placed himself above the wider football community that had given him authority.
Although Infantino was not directly named in the letter, sources said the statement was intended to increase pressure on him to resign.
Uefa has also threatened to boycott Fifa competitions and could take legal action over the failed investment plan.
There have also been preliminary discussions among some football confederations about creating alternative competitions if Infantino remains in office, although no formal talks have started.
Trump has maintained a close relationship with Infantino. In December 2025, Infantino presented Trump with Fifa’s inaugural Peace Prize.
Trump’s latest support for Infantino has raised questions about whether it will help the Fifa president survive the growing opposition within football.
Some critics argue that the World Cup has become increasingly expensive and commercialised under Infantino’s leadership.
The controversy surrounding the proposed investment plan has also increased scrutiny of Fifa’s financial ambitions, despite the organisation already recording strong revenues.
Trump’s support is expected to be welcomed by Infantino, but it remains unclear whether the US president’s backing will be enough to strengthen Infantino’s position among football’s governing bodies.
