Bayern boss settles the score with Infantino: “Thank goodness this nightmare is over” | OneFootball

FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s controversial investment plans are off the table—much to the delight of FC Bayern. Shortly before the Munich team’s departure for their Asian tour, President Herbert Hainer spoke out clearly and sharply criticized the world governing body’s actions. At the same time, the 72-year-old praised UEFA’s clear stance.

FIFA’s idea of selling stakes in World Cups to external investors had sparked heated discussions worldwide in recent days. UEFA and its member associations, in particular, had strongly opposed the plan. In the end, FIFA withdrew its plans.

For Herbert Hainer, this is the only correct decision.

Hainer: “Thank goodness this nightmare is over.”

The Bayern Munich president is relieved that the plans have failed. “First of all, I have to say, it’s a relief that this nightmare is over as quickly as it began and that this absurd idea is off the table,” Hainer explained to FCBinside.

The 72-year-old is particularly critical of the lack of transparency leading up to the discussion.

“I think UEFA made it very clear that it saw a lack of transparency and also spoke of a loss of trust. Because just imagine: No one was in the loop beforehand. All the associations were taken by surprise, and it was suddenly on the table overnight.”

Warning Against Investor Influence

Photo: IMAGO

For Hainer, this is about far more than just an economic decision. The Bayern Munich president sees the core values of soccer at risk as soon as external investors gain influence over the sport.

“Soccer must remain soccer. As the governing body, FIFA has the responsibility to organize the sport. If outside investors want a say, there’s always the risk that the fundamental principles and structures of soccer will be undermined.”

As possible consequences, Hainer cited changes to the actual game as an example.

“This could affect kickoff times; it could mean multiple hydration breaks—I can think of many possibilities.”

That’s why the Bayern president is calling for similar proposals to be nipped in the bud going forward.

“I think we need to ensure now that such an idea never comes up again. I’m truly convinced of this, and I’m very glad that UEFA, in particular, took this approach and put an end to this nightmare.”

With his statements, Hainer joins the Bayern leadership in voicing strong criticism. Previously, Uli Hoeneß and sporting director Max Eberl had already sharply criticized FIFA’s investor plans. Now the Bayern president is also making it clear that the record champion firmly rejects the influence of external investors on world soccer.