England FA chair Hewitt asks Infantino to release documents related to World Cup sale plan, Balogun red card

Gianni Infantino has been under fire ‌since announcing his failed private equity plans, with Debbie Hewitt’s FA and other governing bodies across the ‌world threatening boycotts and calling for his resignation or replacement. | Photo Credit: AFP

FIFA vice-president and England’s Football Association chairwoman Debbie Hewitt has asked FIFA chief Gianni Infantino to release the materials related to his now-abandoned World Cup investment proposal and USA striker Folarin Balogun’s suspension reversal during World Cup 2026.

According to reports, Hewitt has written a letter to Infantino and Secretary General ⁠Mattias Grafstrom this week, calling for an independent review of the plans to sell a commercial stake in ⁠the World Cup to private investors.

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Moreover, transparency was demanded regarding the football body’s decision to suspend Balogun’s red card, which he received during USA’s round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Both these incidents drew widespread criticism, with UEFA, the Asian Football ​Confederation and North ‌America’s CONCACAF among those calling for changes at the top of FIFA.

Infantino ‌has served as FIFA president since his initial election in February 2016. His current term runs through 2027, ​and he has announced his bid for reelection to extend his tenure to 2031.