Mats Hummels criticizes FIFA President Gianni Infantino

Former German footballer Mats Hummels has issued a sharp critique of FIFA President Gianni Infantino following the collapse of a proposal to sell minority stakes in the organization’s commercial rights to private investors.

Speaking on his podcast, Hummels described the attempt to privatize aspects of the World Cup as “one of the biggest scandals in the history of sport.” He questioned the motivations behind the plan, suggesting that the pursuit of power and money had become an addiction for decision-makers. Hummels warned that such financial exploitation could eventually alienate fans, making the sport unaffordable and causing people to stop watching in the coming decades.

The plan to involve private investors in the commercial activities surrounding major tournaments faced significant opposition, most notably from UEFA, and was ultimately withdrawn.