FIFA has moved to quell internal dissent by publicly reaffirming its support for President Gianni Infantino and issuing an apology to member associations over the failed attempt to sell a minority stake in World Cup commercial rights.
The statement marks a significant pivot for the governing body, which had faced fierce opposition from regional confederations regarding the proposed sale.
The initiative was abandoned after weeks of intense dispute, leaving the organisation to manage the fallout from what it now characterises as a misstep in communication and strategy.
The apology comes in the wake of serious internal allegations.
A senior FIFA executive recently accused Infantino of misleading staff regarding the scope and intent of the commercial rights plan.
The governing body’s decision to back its president while simultaneously apologising for the aborted bid suggests an effort to separate leadership loyalty from operational errors.