A senior administration official close to the pair has said that US President Donald Trump will support Gianni Infantino's bid to remain as FIFA president, despite worldwide criticism.
Support despite backlash
The FIFA chief's position is under threat following a plan to sell a stake in a new FIFA organisation, which was abandoned after widespread backlash. There have also been calls for Infantino to step down.
The official said the president is very fond of Infantino after he helped the US host the “best World Cup ever”.
Relationship under scrutiny
The pair's relationship came under question during this year's World Cup, co-hosted by the US, with arguments of corruption. Trump said he spoke to the FIFA chief to complain after a red card was given to the USA's star striker and his one-match ban was then suspended, sparking debates about political interference.
“Gianni helped us a lot to deliver the best World Cup ever. The president likes him a lot. I am sure the president will do everything possible to help him,” the source told The Telegraph.
“I don’t think the president will change his mind on him, because he is a loyal person. Gianni really delivered the World Cup for the United States. We value that.”
Opposition from other leaders
Despite Trump's backing, political leaders elsewhere do not share the same support. Andy Burnham has repeated his belief that Infantino is "not the right man to lead football" and urges him to stand down.
David Davies, who held several senior roles at the FA between 1994 and 2006, said Infantino has been "seduced for too long" by Donald Trump and runs FIFA in a 'political style'.
The English FA are reportedly preparing a letter withdrawing support for Infantino's re-election, matching that from the Welsh FA. No other candidates have been identified to take the spot.
