politics
UEFA threaten legal action against Infantino to oust FIFA president
MIKE KEEGAN IN MONACO: UEFA is threatening to seek criminal proceedings against Gianni Infantino as they continue their efforts to oust the FIFA president.
TL;DR
- UEFA is preparing to file criminal claims in Switzerland against FIFA President Gianni Infantino and other FIFA officials.
- The claims relate to 'secretive structuring, valuation, financing, and marketing' of now-dropped plans to sell stakes in the World Cup.
- UEFA has filed filings with the US District Court regarding FIFA and Thrive Capital, headed by Joshua Kushner.
- UEFA believes Infantino may have acted fraudulently for his own benefit.
- UEFA withdrew plans to boycott FIFA tournaments after receiving assurances against future sell-offs.
- UEFA cites Swiss criminal code regarding breach of duties and unlawful gain, with potential custodial sentences.
- UEFA's executive committee has mandated the UEFA President and Administration to pursue all necessary avenues for reform and to restore proper limits on presidential authority.
- UEFA stated that FIFA cannot investigate itself and that trust in Infantino is broken.
- UEFA vows to seek a credible alternative if Infantino stands for re-election.
- UEFA plans to explore the 'responsible release' of FIFA's reserves to member associations worldwide.
- UEFA stated that the abandonment of the FFE does not erase the 'deception, intimidation and abuse of power'.