The drama surrounding FIFA president Gianni Infantino continues to grow, and now President Donald Trump has jumped directly into the fight.
Trump publicly backed Infantino amid growing questions about his future, warning soccer federations that replacing the FIFA president would be a major mistake. Trump called Infantino “fantastic” and argued that FIFA has benefited tremendously under his leadership.
The comments come as Infantino faces increasing resistance within international soccer. The English and Welsh football associations recently withdrew their support for his reelection, while UEFA members have also remained at odds with FIFA over several issues following the 2026 World Cup.
Trump, however, made his position crystal clear.
“FIFA would be making a terrible mistake” if it considered replacing Infantino, Trump wrote.
Trump and Infantino have developed a notably close relationship, particularly surrounding the 2026 World Cup hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico. That relationship has also drawn criticism from some within the soccer world who believe FIFA’s leadership has become too closely intertwined with politics.
Regardless of those concerns, Trump clearly believes FIFA should stick with Infantino. And considering the enormous commercial attention surrounding the 2026 World Cup, his comments only add another layer to what is becoming a fascinating power struggle inside world soccer.
Infantino’s future will ultimately be decided within FIFA, not by the U.S. president. But Trump just made sure everyone knows exactly which side he’s on.
