FIFA accuses UEFA of misinformation campaign over shelved FFE plan

FIFA has accused UEFA of a “misinformation campaign” over the shelved Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) scheme, pointing to a legal fight that has been building since last month. UEFA filed legal papers in the US last month asking for disclosure of evidence and documents from FIFA, warning it could pursue a criminal complaint in Switzerland.

Legal clash over FFE

UEFA’s case alleged FIFA president Gianni Infantino was behind “criminal mismanagement” and a “fraudulently off-market” price promoted for his own benefit over the now-paused FFE plan.

In its response on Monday, FIFA said UEFA’s filing contained “numerous false or misleading statements about FIFA and Infantino.” In court documents in Florida, FIFA also argued there was no basis for the claims: “Uefa’s suggestions that Mr Infantino violated any law or ethical principle are categorically without merit.” FIFA went further, describing UEFA’s request as “farcically overbroad,” claiming similar discovery requests had been rejected outright, and saying UEFA acted “in bad faith and for the purpose of harassment.” FIFA asked the court to deny UEFA’s discovery application.

BBC Sport has contacted UEFA for comment. The BBC was told by insiders that if FIFA had nothing to hide, it should disclose documents and speed up the legal process. UEFA has led opposition to Infantino, who is facing calls to stand down from three confederations. The FFE plan proposed selling stakes in the World Cup and other competitions to private investors, triggering backlash, and Infantino has said it was intended to generate additional money for the sport. Infantino will seek election for a fourth term in March 2027, with opponents having until 18 November to find an alternative candidate.