FIFA President Gianni Infantino attended the Caribbean Football Union's Under-14 Series event in the Dominican Republic, despite a request from Concacaf president Victor Montagliani to stay away. Montagliani, who is also a FIFA vice-president, stated that Infantino's presence would "undermine" the tournament's technical focus and draw media attention away from the youth development activity. This plea came as Infantino faced significant backlash over previously proposed plans to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.
Concacaf had previously joined UEFA and the Asian Football Confederation in accusing Infantino of a breach of trust over the World Cup sale proposals. The plans, which were reportedly being handled by JPMorgan, involved forming a new company with stakes potentially worth around $15 billion. Infantino was rumored to be in line for a lucrative commissioner role in this new entity after his FIFA term concludes in 2031.
Despite Montagliani's request to reconsider his attendance, Infantino proceeded to the event, funded by the FIFA Forward program. His presence reportedly caused anger among Concacaf nations. When approached by a reporter about his future and allegations of betraying football, Infantino responded humorously by referencing the reporter's haircut.
Earlier reports indicated that Infantino's blueprint for the World Cup stake sale had been discussed with senior FIFA figures and potential investors, including individuals linked to the Donald Trump administration. However, the proposals were ultimately scrapped in early August following widespread opposition and internal dissent within FIFA. Kevin Lamour, the FIFA chief operating officer who publicly criticized the sale plan, was reportedly sacked earlier in the week.