Lib Dems urge FA and Uefa to quit Fifa over World Cup controversies

Liberal Democrats have urged the FA and UEFA to leave FIFA, citing a World Cup marked by off-field controversies and alleged governance failures. In a criticism of FIFA’s leadership, party leaders accused FIFA of being “corrupt beyond repair,” and objected to high ticket prices alongside the decision to overturn a U.S. player’s suspension after lobbying from President Donald Trump. Sir Ed Davey also said FIFA boss Gianni Infantino had “crossed red line after red line,” alleging field decisions were influenced by Trump while corporate practices harmed fan interests. UEFA has already criticized FIFA for reversing a one-match ban for U.S. striker Folarin Balogun following his red card against Bosnia, reportedly after Trump personally lobbied Infantino. The party also pointed to “dynamic pricing” and the introduction of “hydration breaks” that critics say enable additional advertising revenue. The call follows White House-related comments defending Argentina players over a Falkland Islands banner display, despite FIFA rules restricting political messages.