FIFA blasts UEFA 'smear campaign,' fights World Cup plan disclosures

FIFA escalated its dispute with UEFA by accusing the European body of a “smear campaign” and a “fishing expedition” after UEFA sought U.S. court orders forcing FIFA to turn over documents tied to its failed World Cup investor plan. FIFA’s July proposal to sell stakes in World Cup rights triggered widespread backlash, leading UEFA to threaten a boycott unless the plan was scrapped. FIFA then abandoned the idea. UEFA is now preparing possible legal action against FIFA president Gianni Infantino for alleged “criminal mismanagement,” and last week filed requests in three U.S. states to obtain documents from FIFA and partners, including potential lead investor Joshua Kushner’s Thrive Capital. FIFA asked judges to block UEFA’s requests, arguing there are no existing Swiss criminal proceedings and that UEFA has no standing.