Former Portugal international Luis Figo has joined calls for FIFA president Gianni Infantino to resign, accusing him of failing to protect the interests of football.
In a statement, Figo criticised Infantino’s leadership and claimed that the FIFA president had damaged the reputation of the position he holds.
The former Real Madrid and Barcelona star said Infantino had failed to deliver on promises made when he took charge of world football’s governing body.
“Today, I join other people from all corners of our game to demand the resignation of Gianni Infantino from his position as FIFA president,” Figo said.
According to Figo, Infantino has lost the confidence of key figures within the football community, including senior officials and people who have dedicated their careers to the sport.
“He has lost the support of his senior staff, his closest advisors, the vast majority of people who dedicate their lives to this sport,” he added.
Figo also accused Infantino of acting in his own interest rather than focusing on the development and protection of football.
The comments add to growing criticism from some football figures who have questioned FIFA’s leadership under Infantino, who has served as president since 2016 after succeeding Sepp Blatter.
During his tenure, Infantino has overseen major changes, including the expansion of FIFA tournaments and increased commercial growth for the organisation. However, his leadership has also faced criticism over governance issues and decisions involving football’s global calendar.
Figo, who won several major trophies during his playing career and was crowned FIFA World Player of the Year in 2001, argued that a change in leadership was necessary to protect the future of the sport.
“It is too late to save his dignity, but it is not too late to save football. He should go. Now,” Figo said.
