FIFA has dismissed reports alleging that president Gianni Infantino attempted to use the hosting rights for the 2030 FIFA World Cup final to secure political backing ahead of the organisation’s next presidential election.
The claims suggest Infantino sought public support from Morocco in exchange for awarding the country the right to host the tournament’s showpiece final. However, FIFA has firmly denied the allegations, insisting no decision has been made regarding the venue for the 2030 final.
The 2030 FIFA World Cup, which marks the tournament’s centenary, will be co-hosted by Morocco, Spain and Portugal, while commemorative opening matches will take place in Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay to celebrate 100 years of the competition.
The controversy comes amid growing scrutiny of Infantino’s leadership as speculation intensifies over the next FIFA presidential election.
While supporters credit the FIFA president with expanding international competitions and increasing investment in football development, critics have continued to raise concerns about the organisation’s governance and decision-making processes.
Reports have also alleged that Infantino has been lobbying FIFA member associations and national federations to publicly endorse his leadership ahead of the next election, further fuelling criticism from opponents.
Some critics argue the allegations, if true, would blur the line between football governance and political influence, renewing calls for greater transparency and accountability within the world’s governing body.
FIFA, however, has categorically rejected the claims, describing them as inaccurate and misleading.
“It is false and misleading to claim the FIFA President has made any promise in relation to hosting the FIFA World Cup 2030 Final,” a FIFA spokesperson said in a statement.
“A decision will be made by FIFA in due course.”
FIFA maintains that the process of selecting the host venue for the 2030 World Cup final remains ongoing and that an official announcement will be made at the appropriate time.
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