Sports writer Jeff Powell MBE has urged the Football Association (FA) of England to lead a global challenge against FIFA President Gianni Infantino's vision for the World Cup, characterizing his proposals as a financial "bribe" that threatens the integrity of the sport. Powell argues that Infantino, whom he refers to with the nickname "Johnny Baby," is prioritizing corporate interests over the purity of football.
In a commentary published on July 29, 2026, Powell expressed concern that Infantino's plans, which he suggests involve selling the World Cup in "share lots," would subject the sport to the same speculative pressures as financial markets or industries like pharmaceuticals and armaments. He draws a parallel between Infantino's perceived business acumen and that of American leaders, suggesting a "boardroom heaven" dynamic that makes Infantino difficult to oppose.
Powell reminisces about a past era when FIFA, under presidents like England's Sir Stanley Rous, prioritized the game's welfare above all else. He contends that the FA, as the "first FA in the esteem of much of world football," should take a stand. He calls for the FA to unite various global football stakeholders and politicians behind a concerted protest, urging them not to leave the opposition solely to UEFA, which he suggests has its own conflicts with FIFA.
The commentary criticizes the FA for perceived subservience to the Premier League, advocating for a return to "English propriety" and the preservation of football as a "people's game." Powell specifically warns against the potential for a European boycott, the staging of the World Cup every two years, and the expansion of the tournament to include an ever-increasing number of teams, all of which he attributes to financial motivations and Infantino's agenda.
Powell suggests that the FA could initiate this stand by declaring their refusal to accept any "multi-million dollar handout" that might result from Infantino's proposals. He describes these potential financial incentives as a bribe, particularly for poorer nations within the global football community, and urges the FA to reject such offers for the sake of football lovers worldwide. The article highlights images of Infantino and FA chief executive Mark Bullingham, with one caption suggesting Bullingham must "stand up to what amounts to little more than a bribe."