Wales first home nation to withdraw support for Infantino
Wales withdraw backing for Gianni Infantino's bid to continue his leadership of Fifa.
Thursday, August 6, 2026
Wales first home nation to withdraw support for Infantino — Thursday, August 6, 2026
Pressure mounts on Infantino as Wales withdraws support; U.S. host cities pursue unpaid FIFA funds; calls grow for full review of FIFA leadership. Several U.S. host cities that staged matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup are pressing FIFA for millions of dollars in unpaid legacy contributions, even as the tournament is widely regarded as a sporting and commercial success for the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Biggest developments
U.S. host cities chasing millions of dollars from FIFA after hosting World Cup games
U.S. host cities for the 2026 World Cup are chasing FIFA for millions of dollars they believe they were promised by soccer’s governing body which have so far gone unpaid.
Call for 'full review' as pressure grows on Infantino
The leadership of Fifa is publicly questioned by football's governing bodies in Europe, North and Central America and the Caribbean.
Bullish takes
- Several U.S. host cities view the 2026 World Cup as a major economic and tourism success despite the payment dispute, citing record attendance and local business gains.
Critical takes
- Infantino's sell-off plan collapse sparks leadership questions across confederations.
- Multiple U.S. host cities accuse FIFA of failing to deliver promised legacy funding, raising questions about transparency and long‑term financial commitments for future tournaments.
Why this matters
Post-tournament governance fallout risks further instability for FIFA operations.