Portugal great Luís Figo has joined calls for FIFA president Gianni Infantino to step down over his failed plan to sell off the World Cup to private investors. Figo, widely considered one of the best players of his generation with trophy‑laden stints at Sporting CP, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter Milan, now adds his voice to a growing chorus demanding Infantino resign.

The proposal, unveiled in 2026, was blocked by FIFA confederations including UEFA, which threatened to boycott the World Cup if the plan went ahead. Former Arsenal manager and current FIFA chief of global football development distanced himself from Infantino’s plan, adding fuel to the criticism.

In a scathing statement released on social media on Wednesday, Figo demanded the president remove himself from his post. “Today I join others from across our game and call for Gianni Infantino to resign as FIFA President,” he wrote. “Infantino has debased the office that he promised to elevate. He has lied, deceived and tried to feather his own nest at the expense of the game he is supposed to serve.”

UEFA has also raised the prospect of legal action against Infantino over the plan, while the English and Welsh Football Associations have withdrawn their support. The situation remains volatile as FIFA’s leadership faces mounting pressure.