Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter has publicly criticised his successor, Gianni Infantino, describing the current chief as a "dictator" who may require psychiatric assistance. The 90-year-old Swiss made these remarks in an interview with the German publication Der Spiegel, which was published on Wednesday. Blatter’s comments focus on recent strategic decisions made by Infantino during the 2026 World Cup cycle, which was hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. According to Punch, Blatter specifically targeted the creation of the FIFA Peace Prize for US President Donald Trump, a move he described as embarrassing and potentially mad given the geopolitical context. He also questioned Infantino’s plan to sell a portion of the competition’s commercial rights, a strategy that was abandoned after facing significant backlash from stakeholders.
In the interview, Blatter stated that "FIFA is suffering" and argued that the organisation is currently led by a figure who has allowed himself to be blinded by his own authority. He further noted that Infantino’s re-election strategy relies heavily on promising national associations increased financial rewards, a tactic Blatter views as a form of dictatorial control. The former chief also expressed frustration over the suspension of a red card awarded to US striker Folarin Balogun, a decision that followed an intervention by President Trump. Blatter argued that while statutes can be interpreted, the fundamental rules of the game should apply uniformly to all players. He suggested that Infantino might need a psychiatric ward to understand these boundaries, a comment that highlights the depth of their disagreement.
In response to these criticisms, FIFA provided a statement to AFP, asserting that Infantino is fulfilling his presidential duties through his travels. The organisation also clarified that the Balogun suspension was handled by independent judicial bodies and that Infantino’s use of the elevator at FIFA headquarters is not as exclusive as Blatter suggested. Blatter, who resigned in 2015 amid corruption allegations, said he has no regrets about his tenure and has not spoken to Infantino since early 2016. He identified World Athletics president Sebastian Coe as his preferred candidate to succeed Infantino, though Japanese official Kozo Tashima and former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger are also considering challenges for the presidency.