Michel Platini issued a solemn appeal this Sunday on the Canal Football Club set during his appearance on Canal+, demanding Gianni Infantino's immediate departure from the presidency of FIFA. The former UEFA president justified his stance by citing the numerous controversies surrounding the organization of the 2026 World Cup, as well as the Swiss president's failed attempt to partially privatize the world football governing body.
A contested legacy after the 2026 World Cup
Platini did not mince his words in criticizing Infantino's management, pointing to repeated dysfunctions surrounding the sport's flagship event. The FIFA president has faced strong criticism for his lack of transparency and controversial strategic choices, particularly in the selection of the host country and the logistical organization of the tournament. For the former European leader, these errors are a sign of failing governance, incompatible with football's values. Platini's appeal comes as criticism of Infantino intensifies, with accusations of power centralization and marginalization of national federations. The plan for partial privatization of FIFA, aimed at attracting private investors, has also been seen as a risky move that could compromise the body's independence.
The failed privatization, a symbol of misconduct
The FIFA president had attempted to push through a partial privatization plan, an initiative that sparked outrage within football's governing bodies. The plan, which envisaged opening up capital to private investors, was strongly contested by member federations, who feared losing control over the world's most popular sport. Platini denounced this attempt as further proof of Infantino's inability to uphold the rules he is supposed to enforce. For the former UEFA chief, this affair illustrates opaque governance and a blatant disregard for football's democratic principles. “He does not respect the rules he is supposed to uphold,” he stated during his appearance, emphasizing the urgent need for change at the helm of FIFA. Platini also highlighted the conflicts of interest and questionable alliances Infantino has cultivated with certain federation leaders, reinforcing the image of an institution in crisis.
Heading towards an unprecedented institutional crisis?
Platini's appeal comes at a time of growing tensions within FIFA, where criticism of Infantino is becoming increasingly urgent. Several national federations have already expressed their dissatisfaction, while voices within the organization itself are calling for far-reaching reform. The 2026 World Cup, marked by delays and cost overruns, has further weakened the Swiss president's position, already undermined by legal issues in Switzerland. Platini, who was himself suspended and then rehabilitated by sports justice, remains an influential figure in European football. His intervention could reignite the debate on FIFA's governance and accelerate any potential vote of no confidence against Infantino. For now, the Swiss president has not publicly responded to his predecessor's call at UEFA, but pressure on him continues to mount.
Fréderic Manet · 30 août 2026 · 3 min de lecture
