US President Donald Trump has publicly backed FIFA president Gianni Infantino as the football administrator faces growing criticism ahead of his re-election bid.

Trump defended Infantino in a Truth Social post on Monday, warning FIFA against considering a leadership change.

“FIFA would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing President Gianni Infantino,” Trump said.

He described the FIFA boss as “fantastic” and credited him with overseeing what Trump called the most successful World Cup ever staged.

“If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again!” Trump added.

Infantino faces growing criticism

Trump’s intervention comes as Infantino faces scrutiny over allegations involving a workplace relationship and criticism surrounding a failed private investment proposal.

Infantino has denied wrongdoing.

FIFA has also stood behind its president, describing the criticism directed at him and the organisation as part of a broader effort to undermine its leadership.

FIFA recently withdrew a controversial proposal that would have allowed private investment linked to the World Cup after facing strong opposition.

The organisation subsequently apologised over the handling of the proposal while reaffirming its support for Infantino.

US Soccer takes different position

Trump’s strong backing contrasts with criticism from football organisations in North and Central America.

US Soccer joined Canada Soccer and regional football organisations in raising concerns about Infantino.

European football body UEFA has also strongly criticised his leadership over the abandoned investment proposal.

However, Infantino retains support from other influential football organisations.

The Confederation of African Football and South American governing body CONMEBOL are among those that have backed him.

FIFA election approaches

Infantino is expected to seek another term as FIFA president when the organisation holds its election next March.

The controversy surrounding his leadership means the months leading up to that vote could become increasingly contentious.

Trump’s intervention adds another high-profile voice to the debate.

The US president and Infantino have maintained a visible relationship around major football events, including the recently completed 2026 FIFA World Cup.

For now, FIFA’s leadership continues to stand behind Infantino despite mounting criticism from several major football organisations.