FIFA has categorically denied allegations that President Gianni Infantino sought political support from the Trump administration following the collapse of a plan to sell a stake in World Cup commercial rights.
The federation dismissed the claims as "pure fiction," marking a sharp escalation in the controversy surrounding its commercial strategy and political maneuvering.
The denial comes in response to reports that Infantino approached the US administration for backing after the proposal was abandoned.
The original plan to sell a minority stake in the tournament's commercial rights faced fierce opposition from regional confederations, leading to a weeks-long dispute that ultimately forced FIFA to withdraw the proposal.
This development underscores the deep internal divisions within global football's governing body.
The abrupt end to the commercial rights sale has left questions about FIFA's financial strategy and its relationship with key stakeholders.