FIFA has rejected reports suggesting President <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/sorry-you-were-consumed-by-hate-infantino-hits-back-at-critics/7250-5-0">Gianni Infantino</a> contacted United States President Donald Trump or officials from his administration following the collapse of a proposed World Cup commercial rights investment plan. FIFA described the claims as &ldquo;pure fiction&rdquo; in a statement issued to Reuters.

The governing body responded after a report claimed Infantino had attempted to seek support from the US administration after the proposal was withdrawn. FIFA said no such communication had taken place in recent days.

&ldquo;The FIFA President has not made any call to the U.S. President, or any members of his administration, in recent days. It is pure fiction,&rdquo; FIFA said in its statement.

The controversy follows the decision to abandon a plan that would have seen FIFA sell around a 20% stake in a new commercial entity managing competitions, including the World Cup. The proposal was aimed at attracting private investment and generating up to $4.2 billion but faced opposition from several stakeholders.

<h2>Pressure Increases After Commercial Plan Collapse</h2>

The failed initiative has increased scrutiny around Infantino&rsquo;s leadership as he prepares for a potential bid for another term as FIFA president. The setback has raised questions over the future of the commercial strategy and its impact on his position within football&rsquo;s governing structure.

Infantino has maintained a close relationship with Trump in recent years, with both figures appearing together at major football events. Their public association included the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States and preparations surrounding the <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026/444/1">2026 FIFA World Cup</a>, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

The relationship also drew attention after Infantino presented Trump with the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize in December 2025, naming him the first recipient of the award.

Further scrutiny emerged because Thrive Capital, founded by Joshua Kushner, had been linked with the proposed commercial rights venture. Kushner is the brother of Jared Kushner, Trump&rsquo;s son-in-law.

FIFA has continued to deny any political involvement in the aftermath of the failed investment proposal, while Infantino faces pressure to address concerns surrounding the organisation&rsquo;s commercial direction.

FIFA denied Infantino-Trump report, calling claims that Gianni Infantino sought Donald Trump's help after a $4.2B World Cup deal collapsed pure fiction.

FIFA Denied Infantino-Trump Report on Failed World Cup Deal

MIAMI: Lionel Messi returns to competitive action but Inter Miami CF were unable to celebrate with a victory, conceding late in a 2-2 draw against Columbus Crew at Nu Stadium on Saturday. The result leaves Miami frustrated after leading twice during an entertaining MLS encounter.

The Argentine forward was not included in the starting lineup and made his first appearance since Argentina&#39;s <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/spain-dominate-argentina-lamine-yamal-first-world-cup-win/7118-7-0">World Cup final</a> defeat when he entered the match shortly after halftime. His introduction was greeted with a standing ovation from the home crowd, and he nearly made an immediate impact, sending a left-footed effort narrowly wide after linking up with Luis Suarez.

<h2>Miami fail to protect two leads</h2>

Before <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/messi-joins-miami-training-after-world-cup-duty/7301-7-0">Messi&#39;s arrival</a>, Suarez had already played a decisive role in Miami&#39;s attacking display. The veteran striker opened the scoring with a long-range finish and later created the hosts&#39; second goal, providing the assist for Noah Allen just before the break.

Columbus, however, responded on both occasions. An own goal by debutant Casemiro brought the visitors level for the first time, while Brais M&eacute;ndez rescued a point with a free-kick late in the second half to ensure the Inter Miami vs Columbus Crew contest ended all square.

<h2>Hoyos praises squad despite dropped points</h2>

Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos admitted his side missed the chance to secure all three points but highlighted the commitment shown throughout the match.

&quot;I want to thank the squad for the effort they&#39;ve put in,&quot; he said.

&quot;I want to publicly thank Leo and Rodri for being here; that has been truly important for us. I also want to acknowledge the sustained effort everyone is making throughout the game, a league that is fiercely contested and requires hard work.&quot;

Although the draw denied Miami a winning return for Messi, the 39-year-old&#39;s comeback provided a positive boost as the club prepares for the next phase of its MLS campaign.

Lionel Messi returns off the bench, but Inter Miami vs Columbus Crew ends in a dramatic 2-2 draw after a late equalizer at Nu Stadium.

Lionel Messi Returns in Inter Miami vs Columbus Crew Draw

FIFA has moved to calm growing unrest after its proposed commercial restructuring triggered one of the biggest political disputes in world football in recent years.

The governing body issued a strong statement rejecting claims that the FIFA World Cup was being put up for sale. Officials insisted reports surrounding the proposed FIFA private equity venture had created confusion and stressed that no deal would move forward without approval from member associations.

According to FIFA, the consultation process had been overshadowed by inaccurate reporting, leading to widespread criticism before members had the opportunity to review the proposal.

&quot;The FIFA World Cup belongs to football,&quot; the organization effectively argued through its statement, adding that existing commercial operations would remain unchanged if members declined to support the new FIFA Forward Enterprise.

<h2>UEFA and Concacaf Push Back Against FIFA Proposal</h2>

The reassurance did little to ease tensions.

<a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/uefa-threatens-to-boycott-world-cup-over-fifa-investment-plans/7312-5-0">UEFA</a> announced that its member associations would refuse to take part in FIFA competitions if the governing body pursued the investment proposal. European football leaders argued that the game&#39;s biggest competitions should never become financial assets for outside investors.

Concacaf soon echoed similar concerns. Its members questioned the speed of the process, the limited consultation and the absence of approval through FIFA&#39;s established governance channels. Officials also challenged the need for external investment after recent World Cups generated record revenues.

The proposed venture would create a commercial company valued at around $20 billion, with private investors owning up to a 20 percent stake. Reports identified a New York investment firm founded by Joshua Kushner as the lead investor.

To encourage support, FIFA reportedly offered to double guaranteed funding for each member association from $10 million to $20 million during the next funding cycle. Long-term projections suggested significantly larger financial distributions through 2038 if the proposal received approval.

Resistance, however, has spread beyond Europe.

The Asian Football Confederation also raised concerns, warning member nations that the proposal could weaken the balance between FIFA and continental confederations while creating uncertainty around future competitions.

Despite mounting opposition, FIFA maintains that every one of its 211 member associations deserves an equal voice before any decision is reached. The organization insists FIFA private equity remains only a proposal under consultation and says FIFA World Cup competitions will continue under the existing structure unless members collectively choose a different direction.

FIFA insists the World Cup is not for sale after UEFA, Concacaf and other football bodies strongly oppose its proposed private equity venture.

FIFA Rejects Sale Claims Amid World Cup Investment Backlash

European football&rsquo;s governing bodies have taken a strong stand against FIFA&rsquo;s proposed <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/fifa-investment-plan-uefa-fifa-dispute-global-backlash/7297-7-0">investment plans</a>, with all 55 member associations agreeing to consider a World Cup boycott if the proposal goes ahead. The plan involves FIFA allowing private investors to buy stakes in its competitions.

The matter was discussed during a special emergency meeting after FIFA revealed the proposal earlier this week. The meeting was held to decide the next steps following the announcement from football&rsquo;s world governing organisation.

Concacaf has also opposed FIFA&rsquo;s idea, with all 41 of its member associations rejecting the proposal introduced by FIFA president Gianni Infantino. The organisation, which represents football in North and Central America, made the decision after holding a meeting on Thursday. Sources have also indicated that several Concacaf nations are becoming increasingly unhappy with Infantino&rsquo;s leadership.

UEFA had previously expressed its concerns through two strongly worded statements, and the latest developments have further shown the growing disagreement between European football officials and FIFA.

&quot;The World Cup cannot be treated as an investment product.&rdquo; said the UEFA statement.

&quot;It is one of football&#39;s greatest sporting legacies. It has been built over generations by players, national teams and supporters across every continent. No part of it should ever be surrendered to private investors. The World Cup is not for sale.&quot; added the statement.

UEFA&rsquo;s boycott threat would apply to all FIFA tournaments, including the men&rsquo;s and women&rsquo;s World Cups as well as the Club World Cup. The move would only happen if FIFA president Gianni Infantino&rsquo;s proposals receive approval from member associations.

The first major event where this decision could have an impact is the Women&rsquo;s World Cup play-offs scheduled for October.

During UEFA&rsquo;s meeting, FA chairwoman Debbie Hewitt and chief executive Mark Bullingham were among the officials who spoke about the issue. The mood of the meeting was reportedly very tense, showing the strong opposition to FIFA&rsquo;s plans.

Although Debbie Hewitt holds the position of one of FIFA&rsquo;s eight vice-presidents, she was reportedly unaware of the discussions taking place between Infantino and other officials regarding the proposals. This further shows that Infantino wants to take such drastic step unilaterally without taking other stakeholders into confidence.

UEFA has strongly opposed FIFA’s investment plans, with European football associations considering a World Cup boycott if the proposal to involve private investors moves forward.

UEFA Warns of World Cup Boycott Amid FIFA Investment Plan Dispute

Lionel Messi has resumed work with Inter Miami CF after his World Cup campaign with Argentina, providing the MLS club with a timely boost ahead of a demanding stretch of domestic and regional competitions. Messi&#39;s return to training comes 10 days after Argentina&#39;s defeat to Spain national football team in the <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026/444/1">2026 FIFA World Cup</a> final.

Inter Miami shared footage from the session showing Messi back on the training pitch alongside former Barcelona teammate Luis Su&aacute;rez. It was the first time the Argentine captain had been involved with the club since concluding international duty in New Jersey.

<h2>Focus Shifts Back to Club Football</h2>

Messi joins Miami training after the World Cup update follows a short period away from football, during which the 39-year-old spent time with his family in Rosario after Argentina fell short of defending their world title.&nbsp;

Shortly after the final, Messi reflected on the defeat, writing: &ldquo;The pain is immense, and it&rsquo;s going to take a long time for this wound to heal.&rdquo;

Despite returning to the club&#39;s training base, there is still no confirmation on when Messi will feature in a competitive fixture. His international teammate Rodrigo De Paul has also rejoined the squad after receiving additional time off following the World Cup.

Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos had previously stressed the need for patience after the tournament.

&ldquo;They need the time,&rdquo; Hoyos said. &ldquo;A World Cup is a massive undertaking; there is physical and mental exhaustion. They deserve the space.&rdquo;

<h2>Miami Schedule Awaits Messi&#39;s Return</h2>

Inter Miami are scheduled to face Columbus Crew on Saturday before opening their Leagues Cup campaign against Atl&eacute;tico de San Luis next week. The club has yet to announce whether Messi will be available for either fixture.

Major League Soccer granted Messi and De Paul permission to miss this year&#39;s MLS All-Star Game because of their recent World Cup commitments. The pair were exempted despite league rules that normally require selected players to participate.

Also read: <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/lionel-messi-net-worth-2026-salary-contract-and-billionaire-status/5669-7-0">Messi net worth 2026</a>.

Lionel Messi return to training confirmed as Messi joins Miami training after World Cup duty ahead of Inter Miami’s clash with Columbus Crew.

Messi Joins Miami Training After World Cup Duty

MANCHESTER: In a major development for the latest <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/manchester-city-rodri-contract-real-madrid-transfer-update/7265-7-0">Manchester City</a> transfer news, the club has stepped up its pursuit of French football&#39;s brightest teenage prodigy, Ayyoub Bouaddi. Following intense 24-hour talks, the Premier League champions have submitted Manchester City&#39;s new official bid to Lille, with a deal now described as &quot;close&quot; as crucial negotiations enter their final stages.&nbsp;

City management is pushing aggressively on both the club and player sides to secure one of European football&rsquo;s most highly-rated midfield prospects before rival teams can hijack the move.

<h2>Breakthrough in Negotiations</h2>

City&rsquo;s newly appointed Sporting Director, Hugo Viana, has been leading the charge behind the scenes. He remains in constant communication with Lille President Olivier L&eacute;tang to finalize the intricate payment structure of the deal. While several elite European clubs have monitored the player over the past twelve months, Manchester City&rsquo;s aggressive pursuit has successfully moved them to the absolute front of the queue.&nbsp;

Sources close to the negotiations indicate that the final details regarding the fixed transfer fee and performance-related add-ons are being settled today.

<h2>Personal Terms and Future Plans</h2>

On the player&#39;s side, advanced discussions have yielded a verbal agreement in principle. Ayyoub Bouaddi is ready to commit his long-term future to the Etihad Stadium project on a contract running until June 2031.A final point of discussion between the two clubs remains the immediate competitive future of the 18-year-old.&nbsp;

City management is currently weighing two distinct developmental pathways:

<ul>
	<li>Immediate Integration: Bringing the midfielder directly into the squad for training.</li>
	<li>Developmental Loan: Allowing him to remain at Lille on a season-long loan to guarantee regular first-team minutes.</li>
</ul>

<h2>A Rising Star</h2>

The young midfielder has enjoyed a meteoric rise in Ligue 1. He originally became the youngest player in Lille&rsquo;s history when he debuted at just 16 years old. Known for his press-resistance, mature decision-making, and exceptional progressive passing, he fits the exact profile of a modern midfielder.&nbsp;

Club scouts view him as a long-term successor in the engine room, capable of operating both as a deep-lying playmaker and a box-to-box midfielder. The clubs are now actively exchanging documents.&nbsp;

An official announcement regarding Manchester City&#39;s new official bid to Lille is expected once the final payment structures are signed off, marking a massive win for this window&#39;s Manchester City transfer strategy.

Manchester City submitted an official bid to Lille for Ayyoub Bouaddi, closing in on the 18-year-old midfielder as talks reach final stages.

Man City Submit Official Bid to Lille for Ayyoub Bouaddi

Cristiano Ronaldo is back in training mode after a short break, and the conversation has already shifted toward one number that continues to captivate football fans worldwide: 1000.

After helping <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/al-nassr-financial-crisis-hits-ronaldo-club-with-transfer-freeze/7241-5-0">Al Nassr</a> secure the Saudi Pro League title, the veteran forward appears fully focused on extending a career that has already rewritten football history. His latest social media update hinted at fresh motivation, with the message making it clear that the journey is far from over.

The race toward Cristiano Ronaldo 1000 goals has gathered pace again. Every appearance, every finish, and every celebration now carries extra weight as supporters count down to what could become one of the sport&#39;s greatest individual achievements.

The challenge is enormous. Even for a player who has spent two decades breaking records, reaching four figures demands consistency, fitness, and another season of elite performances. Still, few would dismiss Ronaldo&#39;s chances after everything he has accomplished.

Meanwhile, Al Nassr Saudi Pro League ambitions remain just as important. The club wants to defend its domestic crown while making a deeper impact in continental competitions. Ronaldo is expected to lead that push once again.

The spotlight now follows every match. Cristiano Ronaldo 1000 goals is no longer a distant dream. It has become football&#39;s next great storyline, and Al Nassr Saudi Pro League fans will hope the historic moment arrives in their colors.

&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo is back after leading Al Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title, with the legendary forward now chasing the historic 1000-goal mark.

Ronaldo's Next Mission Is 1000 Goals After Saudi League Glory

FIFA&#39;s proposal to establish a $20 billion commercial subsidiary has sparked one of the biggest governance disputes in modern football. Under the plan, outside investors could acquire up to a 20% stake in a new company that would control the commercial rights of the FIFA World Cup and other major tournaments.

The strongest opposition has come from UEFA, which accused <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/fifa-world-cup-stake-sale-plan-uefa-opposition-investment-row/7286-7-0">FIFA</a> of crossing a line by treating football&#39;s governance as a commercial asset. UEFA argued that the sport belongs to its global community, not any single governing body, and criticized the absence of transparency over potential investors and financial arrangements. The organization called for every stakeholder, including national associations, leagues, clubs, players and supporters, to be fully involved before such a significant decision is considered.

<h2>Global football bodies join opposition&nbsp;</h2>

The backlash quickly spread across the football world. CONCACAF expressed disappointment that the proposal became public before meaningful discussions with member associations and governing bodies. The Asian Football Confederation also urged FIFA to provide complete details on the legal, commercial and governance implications, saying stakeholders need adequate time to assess the proposal before reaching any decision.

Several national federations echoed those concerns. French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo questioned why member associations had not been consulted and confirmed he would discuss the matter with UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and other European football leaders. England&#39;s Football Association said it had no prior knowledge of the proposal and voiced concerns about both the process and the limited information currently available.

Prominent football figures also weighed in. LaLiga president Javier Tebas criticized the proposal, saying FIFA&#39;s commercial rights should not be treated as personal property, while former FIFA president Sepp Blatter warned that football should never be sold to outside financial interests. Denmark&#39;s Football Association described the proposal as potentially having far-reaching consequences for the global game.

Not every response was negative. Czech Football Association president David Trunda said the proposal could benefit smaller football nations if implemented responsibly, though he acknowledged that far more information is needed before any conclusions can be reached.

Germany&#39;s Football Association vice president Hans-Joachim Watzke said there is broad agreement among European associations in opposing the proposal, arguing that a united European stance would carry considerable influence. European Union Sports Commissioner Glen Micallef also criticized the growing commercialization of football, warning that financial expansion must not come at the expense of transparency, trust and good governance.

As FIFA prepares to present further details, pressure continues to mount. What began as a commercial proposal has evolved into a global debate over who should control football&#39;s future and how major decisions affecting the sport should be made.

FIFA's $20 billion investment plan has triggered strong opposition from UEFA, football federations and officials over governance concerns.

FIFA Investment Plan Triggers Football Governance Crisis

FIFA has started disciplinary proceedings against Argentina players Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina, along with assistant coach Roberto Ayala, over clashes with Spain players after the <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/spain-defeat-argentina-to-win-fifa-world-cup-2026-title/7115-5-0">World Cup final</a> in New Jersey.

The global football governing body reached the decision after reviewing the incidents that happened at MetLife Stadium after the conclusion of the final. FIFA has also taken action against the Argentine Football Association (AFA), accusing it of breaking regulations in several matches during the tournament.

Argentina forward Thiago Almada and Spain midfielder Gavi are also under investigation for alleged unsporting behavior. The cases involving Paredes, Molina, and Ayala are more serious, as they concern physical confrontations with Gavi, Rodri, and Dani Olmo during the match.

&quot;In accordance with the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the respondents have now been provided with the opportunity to present their position, following which a decision will be issued by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee in due course,&quot; said the official FIFA statement.

The case against the AFA includes allegations of offensive chants and messages, some of which made political references to the Falkland Islands. Argentina calls the islands the Islas Malvinas, while they are currently controlled by the United Kingdom. Besides this, the AFA is also facing a separate investigation over allegations of racist abuse.

FIFA does not allow football matches to be used as a platform for political or unrelated causes. The Falkland Islands banner sparked controversy and drew reactions from people in both Europe and South America.

For the unversed, this is not the first time an Argentina team has found itself in hot waters. Back in 2014, FIFA fined Argentina &pound;20,000 after players displayed a much bigger banner before their friendly match against Slovenia in La Plata.

Their recent conduct in the tournament, especially after losing the final against Spain was criticized by fans and experts from all around the world. Considering the growing criticism, FIFA has now opened an investigation against Argentina to identify those who breached its rules during the tournament.

FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against several Argentine players and assistant coach Roberto Ayala after clashes with Spain players following the World Cup final.

FIFA Investigating Argentina Over Falklands Banner And World Cup Final Incidents

Neymar Jr has seemingly brought an end to his international career, saying he no longer plans to represent Brazil after the team&#39;s early exit from the FIFA World Cup earlier this month. The veteran forward is Brazil&#39;s highest-ever goalscorer and has been a key figure for the national side for many years.

The 34-year-old shared his thoughts after helping Santos to a 4-2 victory over Venezuela&#39;s Universidad Central in the Copa Sudamericana on Tuesday.

Speaking to the reporters about his future with the national team, Neymar indicated that his journey in Brazil&#39;s famous yellow jersey is now over.

&quot;I think my time with the national team has already passed. I made history there, and I&#39;m very happy about it. I experienced a lot there, gave my blood and my life, and always fought and battled for the yellow jersey. But I don&#39;t think I want it anymore,&quot; said Neymar Jr.

For the unversed, Neymar came off the bench and scored a stoppage-time penalty against Norway in Brazil&rsquo;s last match of the FIFA World Cup 2026. After the game, he hinted that it was likely his final appearance for the Brazilian national team.

&quot;I tried, I tried. Now it&#39;s over,&quot; said Neymar Jr while talking to the reporters.

Neymar was very emotional after Brazil suffered their earliest World Cup exit since 1990 in the recent tournament. The defeat also meant the five-time champions would have to wait longer for a record sixth World Cup title.

Neymar represented Brazil at four FIFA World Cups and left a lasting mark on the national team. He ended his international career with 80 goals and 58 assists in 130 matches, making him Brazil&#39;s highest goalscorer.

The 34-year-old also enjoyed an impressive club career with Santos, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain, winning several major trophies. However, his time with the national team didn&#39;t bring many titles, as his only trophy with Brazil&#39;s senior side came in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup.

Neymar Jr has seemingly confirmed his retirement from international football after Brazil's FIFA World Cup exit. The Brazilian star says he no longer plans to represent the national team.

Neymar Steps Away from International Football After Brazil's World Cup Exit

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