Former Portugal captain Luis Figo has publicly called for the resignation of FIFA president Gianni Infantino [1].
The demand from one of the sport's most recognized figures signals a growing rift between the governing body's leadership and the athletes it represents. Figo's call for a change in leadership centers on the perceived need for greater transparency and credibility within the global football organization [1].
Figo detailed his grievances in an op-ed published by the Daily Mail and through a statement posted on X [2, 3]. He described the behavior of the FIFA president as the lowest, most deceitful, and cravenly self-interested [1]. The former player argued that the current leadership is detrimental to the values of the game.
"It is too late to save his dignity but it is not too late to save football," Figo said in a post on X [3].
Figo's criticism focuses on the integrity of the sport's administration. He said that the resignation of the president is the only viable path forward to restore trust in the organization [1].
"He should go now," Figo said [1].
The former captain said that Infantino must go to ensure the sport is protected from leadership that lacks transparency [2]. He framed the situation as a critical moment for the future of football's governance.
“"He should go now."”
This public demand for resignation by a high-profile former player adds significant pressure to Gianni Infantino's tenure. While FIFA presidents often face criticism, a direct challenge from a legendary figure like Figo focusing on 'deceit' and 'self-interest' suggests a deeper crisis of legitimacy that could embolden other football associations to demand structural reform.
