Donald Trump has refuted claims of discussing with Gianni Infantino regarding the proposed sale of World Cup stakes to a company associated with his family. The US President dismissed the inquiry during a publicized Cabinet meeting at Camp David. Infantino’s confidential suggestion, unveiled recently, involves creating a new $20 billion subsidiary for commercial operations, with 20% ownership by private investors. The primary investor would be a New York investment firm founded by Joshua Kushner, the brother of Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Trump asserted, “No, I never spoke to him about it.” Over the past few weeks, Trump and Infantino have developed a close bond, spending significant time together during the North American World Cup. Infantino has been actively seeking Trump’s favor since the early days of his second term.
Upon Trump’s return to the Oval Office, a replica of the World Cup was prominently displayed as a gift from Infantino. Subsequently, Trump was granted permission to exhibit a replica of the World Club Cup trophy in the Oval Office. In a notable gesture, aware of Trump’s aspiration for a Nobel Peace Prize, Infantino introduced the “FIFA Peace Prize” earlier this year, presenting it to Trump. The two leaders spent considerable time together during the recent World Cup Final in New Jersey.
Reports emerged days later indicating Trump’s preference for Infantino as the next UN Secretary General, an unlikely scenario akin to Trump’s peace prize ambitions. Infantino further solidified ties with Trump by establishing a new FIFA office inside Trump Tower last year.
Carlos Cordeiro, a senior FIFA adviser who resigned from his position, expressed strong opposition to FIFA’s consideration of selling World Cup stakes to private equity. Cordeiro, a former Goldman Sachs banker, emphasized his non-involvement in the proposal and labeled the $20 billion commercial subsidiary as detrimental to football. He urged other senior FIFA officials to speak out against the plan.
Cordeiro, who frequently accompanied Infantino on visits to meet Trump at the White House, emphasized his deep connection to football and financial expertise, underscoring the negative impact of the proposed deal. He called for the rejection of the proposal, citing its potential consequences for the sport.
