US President Donald Trump has publicly backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino amid demands for his removal, according to a report published on August 11, 2026. In a Truth Social post, Trump said FIFA would make a “serious mistake” if it considered removing Infantino. He described Infantino as an outstanding administrator and said the official had overseen the most successful World Cup ever.

Infantino recently proposed selling commercial rights for the FIFA World Cup and all other FIFA tournaments to private investors for $15 billion. The report said the proposed deal was accused of involving a company owned by the brother of Trump’s son-in-law. Infantino withdrew the proposal after strong opposition from UEFA, CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation. The report also said Infantino has faced fresh controversy over allegations of an extramarital relationship in the workplace.

Despite the withdrawal of the commercial-rights proposal, UEFA, the AFC and CONCACAF remain committed to calls for Infantino’s resignation and are planning an alliance to remove him. Trump said FIFA would never again be as successful or profitable if Infantino left. The report noted that Trump and Infantino have long had close ties, including a special FIFA peace award presented to Trump during a World Cup draw event.