FIFA President Responds to Resignation Question: ‘Your Hairstyle Is Beautiful’

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has sparked fresh controversy after giving an unusual response to questions about his resignation amid criticism over a plan to bring private investment into the commercial rights of the World Cup.

Outside a hotel in the Dominican Republic, Sky News US correspondent James Matthews asked Infantino why he was refusing to step down despite growing calls for his resignation from several sections of the football community.

Matthews also asked whether Infantino had betrayed football through the proposed private investment plan for the World Cup’s commercial rights.

Instead of answering directly, Infantino replied, “Your hairstyle is beautiful. Thank you very much.” As he got into a black car, Matthews again asked why he was holding on to his position despite calls from fans and FIFA members for him to resign. Infantino turned around and said, “I’ll see you at the salon.”

His remarks have triggered further criticism. Three of FIFA’s six continental confederations have accused him of deception over the private investment initiative. UEFA has also said it has lost confidence in Infantino’s leadership and threatened to boycott some FIFA competitions.

Meanwhile, supporter groups from several countries have launched an online petition demanding Infantino’s resignation. They allege that the plan to hand World Cup commercial rights to private investors was developed secretly and that FIFA members and football fans worldwide were kept in the dark.