FIFA accuses UEFA of defamation campaign and announces legal action

Background: The World Cup Investor Deal

UEFA had repeatedly sharply criticized the deal and questioned whether it was compatible with FIFA's statutes and the interests of the national associations. According to FIFA's account, however, the attacks go beyond substantive criticism and are aimed at discrediting the institution of FIFA as a whole.

FIFA stated that it would exhaust all necessary legal means to act against the defamation. The conflict could thus soon be played out before international courts. Observers see this as an attempt by Infantino to intimidate critics and silence the criticism of the investor plans.

Legal Escalation on Both Sides

UEFA, for its part, plans to initiate criminal proceedings against FIFA on suspicion of breach of fiduciary duty in connection with the World Cup investor deal. Both sides thus face each other with their own legal offensives.

In a statement, FIFA pointed to the view that strengthening football in developing countries increases global competition and thereby reduces UEFA's market power. "Wird der Fußball in den Entwicklungsländern gestärkt, nimmt der globale Wettbewerb zu, was letztlich die Marktmacht der UEFA verringert und für mehr Konkurrenz für ihre wichtigsten Wettbewerbe sorgt," FIFA stated in a communication.

UEFA, however, sees this not as a substantive debate but as a power defense by Europe's top clubs, who want to preserve their dominant position in world football. The investor plans would weaken this position, which is why UEFA has an economic self-interest in preventing the deal.

Outlook: Proceedings in New York and Consequences for World Football

Should the dispute actually be fought out in court, the proceedings are likely to drag on for years. In parallel, civil suits around the World Cup investor deal are already underway before a New York court, which are also intertwined with the current allegations. The coming weeks will show whether both sides continue down the path of escalation or return to the negotiating table.

The open conflict between FIFA and UEFA casts a spotlight on a power struggle in world football that has been smoldering for years. While FIFA under Infantino is pursuing a stronger global orientation and the expansion of new markets, UEFA is defending the privileges of European top-flight football. So far, both sides have shown no sign of backing down.