FIFA VP loses confidence in Infantino
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
FIFA COO Kevin Lamour left his role on Aug 17 after accusing President Infantino of deceiving.
The departure deepens a revolt as European, Asian, and North American confederations call for.
Background
FIFA President Gianni Infantino proposed a plan to sell stakes in future World Cup profits to private equity funds, which was abandoned on August 1. The plan drew criticism from staff and confederations, leading to calls for Infantino to resign. Kevin Lamour, FIFA's COO, publicly accused Infantino of deceiving staff, and his subsequent exit has intensified the fallout.
How it unfolded
- Jul 31, 2026Kevin Lamour released a statement to the Associated Press criticizing Infantino's World Cup plan, saying staff had been 'deceived' and calling it 'the project of one person'.
- Aug 1, 2026FIFA aborted the plan to sell stakes in football competitions.
- Aug 13, 2026Six Arab federations (Morocco, Qatar, Egypt, Mauritania, Lebanon, Sudan) expressed full support for Infantino, while the Football Association of Ireland withdrew its support.
- Aug 17, 2026FIFA confirmed that the working relationship with Kevin Lamour as COO ended on this date.
- Aug 18, 2026Israel became the latest member to withdraw support for Infantino's re-election, citing an 'unprecedented crisis of confidence'.
Who’s saying what
- Support
- Six Arab federations expressed 'full support' and 'confidence' in Infantino's leadership.
- Caution
- UEFA vice-president Laura McAllister called Lamour's sacking 'deeply troubling' and a message against change.
- Official
- FIFA confirmed the end of the working relationship with Lamour without detailing reasons.
Still unverified
The exact circumstances of Lamour's departure (whether he resigned or was fired) are not confirmed; reports describe it as 'left' or 'dismissed'.