LaLiga President Accuses FIFA Chief Infantino of 'Destroying' Football

Javier Tebas, the president of LaLiga, has voiced strong criticism against FIFA president Gianni Infantino, asserting that Infantino's tenure has concluded and that his leadership is actively "destroying the very essence" of football. This declaration comes amidst mounting pressure on Infantino following the abandonment of his controversial proposal for private investment in FIFA competitions, including the World Cup.

Infantino has faced increasing scrutiny after his administration shelved plans for a commercial subsidiary that would have allowed private investors to acquire stakes in FIFA events. Despite Infantino's recent apology to member associations regarding the handling of this proposal, the backlash has intensified, with organizations like UEFA and the Football Association calling for his resignation.

In an interview with French newspaper Le Monde, Tebas expressed his belief that Infantino's leadership has run its course. "For me, Gianni Infantino’s time has long since passed," Tebas stated. He clarified that this view isn't solely based on recent events but is a long-held observation of Infantino's management style, which he feels others are only now recognizing.

"Gianni Infantino is not someone who contributes to the growth of football," Tebas continued. "On the contrary, his projects are destroying the very essence of the sport: the national leagues. Football is not limited to the elite. For me, the Infantino era is over."

Tebas also emphasized that replacing Infantino would not be sufficient, arguing for a complete overhaul of FIFA's structure. "What remains to be seen is when that will take effect and how the succession will unfold," he added. "I hope it is not just a matter of swapping out some people for others, but of a genuine overhaul."

Turbulent Week for Infantino Continues

This criticism follows a difficult week for Infantino, during which UEFA confirmed a severance payment had been made to a former female employee who has alleged an inappropriate relationship with Infantino during his time as UEFA general secretary. Infantino has denied these allegations.

Even with the withdrawal of FIFA's investment plans, UEFA has reiterated its threat to boycott future World Cups if similar proposals are put forward again.

Tebas views these controversies as indicative of broader governance issues within the sport. "What is happening does not surprise me," he remarked. "What does surprise me is the reaction of many people who remained silent for years. This episode is only the tip of the iceberg of what has been going on within an institution, FIFA, but also more broadly in football, where there are no real governance policies."

He concluded by stressing that the problem extends beyond a single individual: "And the problem is not limited to one person; it is about an entire system. The old system can persist even when the people change. Let’s hope things truly change, that a new leader arrives, and that new governance is established at FIFA."