New Zealand also steps aside Infantino, wants independent investigation

New Zealand Football has withdrawn its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino. At the same time, the organization has demanded an independent investigation into the canceled plan to sell part of the World Cup.

In a statement on Friday (August 14), New Zealand Football said, “Some of FIFA’s decisions and actions have created a crisis of trust and division in international football. In this situation, an independent review is needed to restore trust and confidence.”

New Zealand Football said, “Good governance, accountability and transparency are crucial to maintaining trust in the administration of international football. This moment is an opportunity for all FIFA member associations to take a stand for stronger good governance, accountability and transparency.”

Earlier this week, FIFA’s three powerful confederations—Europe’s UEFA, North and Central America’s CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC)—accused Infantino of “fraudulent” breach of trust in a joint open letter. It is believed that they want the Swiss official to resign before he is up for re-election in March.

New Zealand Football has withdrawn its support as the latest FIFA member to take a stand against Infantino. The Norwegian Football Federation had earlier called for him to resign in a statement.

New Zealand Football made the decision after a meeting of the regional body Oceania Football Confederation on Wednesday. However, in a statement on Friday, the OFC did not demand Infantino's resignation. They welcomed the decision to suspend the World Cup investment plan, saying, "Good governance, transparency and respect for established institutional processes are fundamental to the effective administration and sustainable development of football."

Meanwhile, world football's governing body has responded to these initiatives, accusing Infantino and FIFA of being undermining them.

The heads of six Arab football federations expressed their "full support" and "confidence" in Infantino yesterday. In addition to Morocco, the co-host of the 2030 World Cup, Qatar, Egypt, Mauritania, Lebanon and Sudan have expressed their support.