Jul 29, 2026
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has written to all 211 member associations offering them $40 million each if they back his plan to sell stakes in FIFA's major competitions, including the World Cup, to external investors. The proposal has triggered immediate backlash from UEFA and accusations of 'selling the soul of football.'
Argentina advanced in the 2026 World Cup after a controversial match against Egypt featuring disputed VAR decisions, with 39-year-old Lionel Messi leading a dramatic comeback. Egyptian players and coaches protested the officiating, calling the match 'rigged,' while questions about tournament legitimacy emerged amid ongoing controversies involving US President Donald Trump and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino.
FIFA made the unprecedented decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's automatic one-game red card ban, allowing the U.S. striker to play in Monday's World Cup round-of-16 match against Belgium. The decision came after President Donald Trump personally called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to discuss the situation.