FIFA has allegedly misled the public about hiring a British marketing firm to support its president, Gianni Infantino, amidst his ongoing political troubles, according to leaked emails obtained by The Post.
In response to an article published by this newspaper, FIFA categorically denied that it had engaged Sir Martin Sorrell’s London agency, Monks, to assist in improving Infantino’s public image following a failed attempt to sell the organization’s commercial assets to Thrive Capital, co-founded by Josh Kushner.
A spokesperson for FIFA stated that it is “demonstrably false” to link any supplier contract with the upcoming FIFA presidential election in March, but they declined to provide a copy of the alleged agreement, citing a commitment to corporate confidentiality.
However, an email sent on Monday by Monks’ Sarah Jackson to international journalists, including the BBC, directly contradicted this statement. The email linked Infantino’s recent trip to the Caribbean with the “increasing attention” on the presidential election in 2027.
The PR firm distributed flattering comments from regional football federation leaders praising Infantino’s contribution to FIFA funding, indicating that reporters should use these endorsements to counter criticism from high-profile figures like CONCACAF President Victor Montagliani.
In fact, Sorrell’s firm provided journalists with a collection of positive remarks from Caribbean football officials, suggesting it could be an interesting narrative amid the “broader debate” concerning FIFA’s leadership as the election looms. One soccer insider expressed outrage, wondering if NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell would similarly fund his image. The sentiment was clear: FIFA leaders should carefully manage the organization’s finances before risking personal gain.
The Post reached out to Monks and FIFA for further commentary.
Jackson’s email drew attention to regional presidents in the Caribbean voicing their backing for Infantino, particularly regarding the positive effects of FIFA’s increased investments in their respective nations’ soccer programs.
The leaked email appeared to document a political loyalty exchange, with local leaders affirming their support in return for financial backing from FIFA. Jamaica Football Federation President Michael Ricketts praised Infantino, noting that FIFA’s financial assistance had dramatically improved under his leadership compared to previous years.
Similarly, Avanell Morton, President of the British Virgin Islands FA, commended Infantino, exclaiming, “What more can he do? He’s doing a fantastic job already. He’s doing a fantastic job for the entire region.”
Infantino had visited the Caribbean last week, as reported by The Post, after spending two nights at the luxurious St. Regis hotel in Manhattan, where suites can cost upwards of $11,000 per night.
One FIFA insider commented on Infantino’s extravagant PR efforts and frequent travels, suggesting it was no surprise given that “Gianni never pays for anything out of his own pocket.”
Infantino has been primarily traveling on a privately owned jet registered in Qatar, seeking support since the failed deal to sell FIFA’s commercial assets.
He was first elected FIFA President in February 2016 after the resignation of Sepp Blatter. His upcoming bid for a fourth term would span from 2027 to 2031.
Last month, UEFA pursued legal action in Manhattan, seeking to compel Kushner and Thrive Capital to surrender documents as part of an investigation. FIFA condemned this legal endeavor as “harassment.”
The Post had previously reported that FIFA terminated a substantial $20 billion arrangement to sell part of the organization to Thrive Capital.
Thrive Capital is managed by the younger brother of Jared Kushner, a former senior adviser to President Trump.
UEFA leadership is looking to gather evidence for a potential criminal inquiry in Switzerland, utilizing a U.S. legal procedure known as discovery, as both UEFA and FIFA have their headquarters in the country.
