FIFA Sacks Top Official After Infantino Criticism

FIFA has ended its working relationship with Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour, less than three weeks after he publicly criticised President Gianni Infantino over a controversial commercial initiative.

The world football governing body confirmed on Monday that Lamour was no longer serving as its Chief Operating Officer, according to BBC Sport.

A FIFA spokesperson said the organisation’s working relationship with Lamour ended on August 17, 2026, while thanking him for his two years of service.

Lamour had publicly criticised the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative, which involved establishing a company to manage commercial and ticketing rights for FIFA competitions.

He described the proposal as “the project of one person” and alleged that FIFA’s administration had been misled about the initiative.

Lamour also questioned Infantino’s leadership style, arguing that a president should unite and inspire people but claiming the situation within FIFA was moving in the opposite direction.

The proposed FFE company was eventually abandoned after plans to sell a 21 per cent stake to private investment firms faced strong opposition from several football organisations.

UEFA, Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation opposed the proposal. UEFA was also reportedly prepared to consider a boycott of the World Cup if the plan proceeded.

The dispute has added pressure to Infantino’s campaign for a fourth term as FIFA president, with UEFA and Concacaf withdrawing their backing for his re-election.

The Scottish Football Association also withdrew its support for Infantino on Monday, following similar decisions by England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

The developments have highlighted growing divisions within international football administration ahead of FIFA’s presidential election.

Despite the opposition from several European and other football bodies, Infantino continues to enjoy support from the confederations representing Africa, South America and Oceania.

Lamour’s departure further underscores the internal tensions surrounding FIFA’s commercial strategy and leadership as the organisation prepares for the next phase of its global football administration.

The disagreement over the abandoned commercial project has also raised questions about governance, transparency and the influence of private investment within FIFA’s business operations.

Infantino remains in the race for another term, although the withdrawal of support from several influential football associations could make the political contest increasingly significant.