LaLiga President Demands Infantino’s Resignation, Says FIFA Is “Hurting Football”

LaLiga president Javier Tebas has called on FIFA president Gianni Infantino to step down, accusing him of steering world football in the wrong direction through controversial decisions and the continued expansion of major international tournaments.

Speaking after the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Tebas argued that Infantino's leadership has prioritized commercial interests over the long-term health of football. He said the current FIFA administration has introduced policies that are placing increasing pressure on players, domestic leagues, and football clubs.

Among Tebas' strongest criticisms is FIFA's reported proposal to expand the 2030 World Cup to 64 teams, a move he believes would further congest the football calendar and undermine domestic competitions. He also criticized the 48-team format used at the 2026 World Cup, saying it stretched the tournament unnecessarily.

Tebas further alleged that recent controversies surrounding the World Cup—including unusually long halftime breaks and other tournament decisions—demonstrate that football is increasingly being driven by commercial considerations rather than sporting integrity. He described FIFA's governance as "a system that is sick at the source" and insisted that Infantino's time as president should come to an end.

Despite the criticism, Infantino remains strongly backed by the majority of FIFA's member associations and is widely expected to seek another term as FIFA president. More than 200 national football associations have reportedly endorsed his re-election bid, making any immediate leadership change unlikely.

The latest comments from Tebas add to growing debate within world football over the future direction of FIFA, with concerns ranging from tournament expansion and player welfare to governance and the balance between commercial growth and the interests of the game.