FIFA President Infantino Faces Criminal Complaint Days Before World Cup 2026 Opener

Just days before the 2026 World Cup opener, former UEFA boss Michel Platini filed criminal and civil charges against FIFA President Gianni Infantino in a French court. Platini claims Infantino led efforts to block his 2016 presidential bid by arranging a disputed payment investigation. Platini was banned in 2015 after a payment from Sepp Blatter sparked an ethics probe. Both men were later acquitted by Swiss courts in 2022 and 2025. Now, Platini is seeking damages for the lost chance to run for FIFA’s top job. Infantino, who served as UEFA general secretary under Platini, won the presidency after Platini’s ban. Two other former FIFA officials are also named in the complaint. The case adds fresh pressure on FIFA as global attention turns to the match between Mexico and South Africa this week. Infantino is expected to address the media before kick-off.

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