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OAKLAND PARK, Fla (Gambling911.com) - FIFA president Gianni Infantino is once again on the hot seat following a leaked Argentina letter.
The FIFA president praised the “professionalism” of the Argentina squad following the World Cup final despite the squad taking part in an ugly brawl to conclude a loss to Spain in the final.
At least three different Argentinian players appeared to be involved in a brawl with their Spanish counterparts and an investigation is currently underway.
The leaked letter read as follows:
“I would like to reiterate my most sincere congratulations for this important new result for Argentine soccer,” Infantino wrote in a letter leaked in Argentina and subsequently verified by the Daily Mail.
“The FIFA World Cup 2026 will remain in memory as an unforgettable celebration of football, marked by spectacular matches, the irruption of new promises, the presence of the great figures of the sport and the extraordinary atmosphere lived in stadiums full of fans.
“The magnificent performance of the Albiceleste also contributed decisively to making this edition an exceptional event that captivated millions of football enthusiasts around the world.
“Please send my sincere congratulations to all who have contributed to this magnificent result: to the players, to coach Lionel Scaloni, as well as to the coaching and medical staff and, of course, to the many fans who have accompanied and encouraged the team throughout the competition.
“These victories are always the fruit of constant work, professionalism and attention to detail, but also of passion, commitment and love for this wonderful sport. All this augurs a very promising future and, without a doubt, will pave the way for new and great successes for Argentine football.
“I wish you, dear Mr. President, all the best for the next competitions and I hope to see you again very soon. With all my friendship, Gianni Infantino.”
Polymarket traders, at least for now, aren't buying into the notion that Infantino's days are numbered. That prediction market only has Infantino at an 18% chance of being removed as president by December 31.
Controversy followed both FIFA and Argentina throughout the tournament, with allegations of favoritism towards the 2022 champions.
They were previously scrutinized for a banner taunting England after the semifinal victory.
But it's not just Infantino's perceived fawning over Argentina that's landed him in some hot water since the start of the FIFA World Cup last month.
Critics questioned whether Infantino was too closely aligned with U.S. President Trump during the tournament. The criticism intensified after reports that Trump personally contacted Infantino regarding U.S. striker Folarin Balogun's suspension, and FIFA subsequently allowed Balogun to play while the disciplinary process continued.
Infantino's decision to appear prominently alongside Trump during the World Cup final trophy ceremony drew criticism from some fans and commentators as well.
There was also FIFA's introduction of a Super Bowl-style halftime show for the World Cup final, which received nearly uniform criticism.
For now, Infantino's job appears to be secure.
The International Olympic Committee says it will not investigate a complaint lodged by the human rights campaign group FairSquare claiming Infantino had breached its charter by failing to adhere to rules on political neutrality "through statements or other clear expressions of support for the US president" in regard to the Balogun matter.
- Alistair Prescott, Gambling911.com
