The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) expressed strong support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino on August 27, following the collapse of the FIFA Forward Enterprise plan that faced widespread opposition from football confederations worldwide [1, 2, 3]. The proposal had aimed to sell a 20% minority stake in future World Cup revenues through a new commercial vehicle but was abandoned after resistance from UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation, and CONCACAF [1, 2, 3].
SAFF welcomed FIFA's acknowledgment of mistakes related to the plan and its official apology. The federation called for direct, face-to-face dialogue among all football stakeholders to restore unity in the football community. “At this time, SAFF supports the continued efforts of FIFA President Gianni Infantino and FIFA's leadership to restore unity across the football family and continue growing the game for the benefit of all,” the Saudi Arabian Football Federation said [1].
“The FIFA President’s contribution to growing the game worldwide over almost a decade should also be recognised,” SAFF added, urging FIFA leaders to address all concerns openly during discussions [3].
Infantino has faced mounting pressure to resign, with calls for a vote of no confidence from UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation, and CONCACAF. Some national federations, including Italy, withdrew their support following the failed commercial proposal [3]. Despite the turmoil, Infantino has not convened a FIFA Council meeting but instead met privately with FIFA management in Rabat about three weeks ago [3].
The Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, which backs the 2034 men's World Cup hosted by Saudi Arabia, has also partnered with FIFA for the 2025 Club World Cup and supported the 2026 World Cup in North America and Asia [3].
Infantino aims to secure a fourth presidential term at the upcoming FIFA election scheduled for March 2027, with 37 FIFA Council members eligible to vote in the process [3].
The next major event in this saga will be the FIFA presidential election in March 2027, when Infantino’s leadership mandate will be tested amid ongoing tensions within global football governance [3].
