Sport · Singapore Bureau
Former FIFA Chief Blatter Calls Infantino 'Dictator', Questions Mental Health
Sepp Blatter has launched a scathing attack on current FIFA President Gianni Infantino, describing him as a dictator and suggesting he requires psychiatric intervention. The former FIFA leader told German media he has not communicated with Infantino since early 2016.
LSN Singapore ·
In a sharp rebuke published in Germany's Der Spiegel, Blatter characterized Infantino's leadership of world football's governing body in highly critical terms. The 88-year-old former FIFA president did not elaborate extensively on his specific allegations but made clear his deep dissatisfaction with his successor's stewardship of the organization.
Blatter revealed that his last contact with Infantino dated back to early 2016, suggesting a complete breakdown in relations between the two leaders. This gap in communication underscores the acrimony that has characterized their relationship since Infantino's election to the FIFA presidency in 2016.
The comments represent the latest salvo in an ongoing dispute within FIFA's leadership. Blatter, who led the organization for 17 years before stepping down amid a corruption scandal in 2015, has periodically criticized decisions made under Infantino's administration.
Infantino has faced various controversies during his tenure as FIFA president, though he has maintained strong support from FIFA's member federations and secured reelection in 2019 and again in 2023. The organization has not immediately responded to Blatter's latest remarks.