UEFA Files Criminal Complaint in Switzerland Against FIFA President Gianni Infantino

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has filed an official criminal complaint in Swiss courts against FIFA President Gianni Infantino over a failed $20 billion plan to sell shares of the World Cup. UEFA accuses Infantino of "mismanagement" under Article 158 of the Swiss Criminal Code.

Details of the Accusation and the Swiss Criminal Code

UEFA alleges that FIFA President Gianni Infantino "fraudulently" offered to sell a stake in the World Cup without the federation's official approval. The complaint filed with the Swiss courts requests action against Infantino and other potential FIFA officials under Article 158 of the Swiss Criminal Code for "mismanagement."

The $20 Billion Plan and Thrive Capital

The plan in question involves Thrive Capital Management, a New York-based investment firm founded by Joshua Kushner. According to the allegations, the firm planned to pay FIFA $4.2 billion in exchange for a 20% stake to manage the World Cup. Joshua Kushner is the son of Charles Kushner, the US Ambassador to France, and the brother of Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

Reactions and FIFA's Step Back

The attempt to sell World Cup shares drew significant backlash in the football world. While the US Soccer Federation criticized the sale, FIFA's management is trying to control the situation, admitting that the initiative was a mistake. On the other hand, it is reported that US President Donald Trump has threatened FIFA against any attempts to remove Infantino from office.

Infantino's FIFA Career and the Election Process

Gianni Infantino, who has served as FIFA president since 2016, has overseen World Cup tournaments held in Russia, Qatar, and North America during his tenure. Having been re-elected unopposed twice, Infantino plans to run for re-election in the presidential elections to be held in Rabat, Morocco, on March 18, 2027.