The 2026 World Cup brought people from around the world together to experience the excitement of football, according to a recent report. However, the event also became the backdrop for a significant political move by FIFA president Gianni Infantino. After the tournament ended, Infantino proposed a bold plan to privatize the World Cup, aiming to inject $20 billion in private capital with help from financial firms like JP Morgan and Thrive Capital, an investment firm managed by Joshua Kushner, brother of Jared Kushner, who was married to former U.S. President Donald Trump. This proposal, which could reshape how the World Cup is funded, came amid a history of close ties between Infantino and Trump, including delivering a controversial peace prize and helping to overturn a red card decision that had drawn global attention. Infantino’s political alignment with Trump appears to have influenced his approach to governance. Similar to how the Trump administration reportedly withheld energy grants from states based on their support in the 2024 election, Infantino has reportedly offered more financial support to football associations that back his privatization plan, while offering less to those that oppose it. Critics argue that this mirrors the growing trend of authoritarianism seen in some parts of the world, including the U.S. under Trump. Despite FIFA's claims of upholding democratic principles, the organization has become increasingly centralized under Infantino's leadership, with decisions often made without proper consultation or transparency. Infantino, who has served as FIFA president since 2016, has already secured re-election in 2019 and 2023 without opposition. He has also hinted at running again in 2027, despite FIFA rules limiting leaders to three terms. Known for his criticism of the press and reluctance to engage with journalists, Infantino has created an environment where information flows only from the top down. Despite calls for his removal, including from a U.S. Soccer vice president, Infantino remains a strong contender for re-election. While some regional football bodies have criticized him, others, including the African Football Confederation and countries like Mexico and Qatar, have publicly supported him, giving him the votes he needs to stay in power. The challenge of removing Infantino is compounded by FIFA’s patronage system, which distributes millions to football associations based on loyalty rather than merit. This system has allowed Infantino to maintain control despite his controversial policies. While privatization could have harmed players, fans, and clubs, many football associations supported the plan, highlighting the power of the patronage system. However, calls for reform are growing, with organizations like FairSquare launching campaigns to challenge Infantino’s eligibility and push for greater accountability. Change, however, will likely require external pressure from governments, NGOs, and influential figures in the football world to break FIFA’s cycle of self-regulation and entrenched power.