FIFA's chief of global football development Arsene Wenger says the decision to scrap the plan for private investment in FIFA competitions was "absolutely necessary." FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom, a close ally of president Gianni Infantino, joined the criticism in an internal memo to staff, calling the last week "difficult to comprehend and accept."

Grafstrom, elevated to secretary general in 2024, described a "sad and reproachable series of events" but urged staff to remain focused on serving football and the 211 member associations. He assured administration members they would be "defended and safeguarded from the political context" and emphasized the institution's continuity.

FIFA has been approached for comment.