Uefa demands Fifa transparency as Infantino faces tough questions

UPDATE - follow-up to Uefa gives Infantino two-week deadline to release key documents: European football governing body Uefa has set a 2 November deadline for Fifa to hand over internal documents and answer forty-two questions on its governance.

Questions Asked

The eight-page letter, written by Uefa general secretary Theodore Theodoridis, focuses on multiple controversies within world football. Key topics include the failed Fifa Forward Enterprise private investment plan, the creation of the Fifa Peace Prize, and the overturned red card given to US striker Folarin Balogun during the World Cup. Uefa stated that Gianni Infantino's apology and acknowledgement of mistakes do not explain how past decisions were made without consulting the Fifa Council.

Balogun Controversy

Fifa's disciplinary committee previously lifted a ban on Balogun after a request from US President Donald Trump. Uefa is now asking for all communications between Infantino, Fifa officials, and the disciplinary committee regarding that case. The letter also questions why no disciplinary action was taken against DR Congo after the team reportedly used an ineligible player in World Cup qualifying.

Investment Deals

Uefa has raised concerns about the relationship with Joshua Kushner's Thrive Capital. The firm was chosen as lead investor for an investment project without any competitive bidding or prior consultation with the Fifa Council. The letter notes that Thrive Capital has links to the family of Donald Trump, who was awarded the Fifa Peace Prize, and asks who decided to establish the prize and give it to the US president.

Context

Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt, who serves as a Fifa vice-president, stated that Gianni Infantino is not fit to be Fifa president if he fails to answer these questions. Uefa has not specified what actions it will take if Fifa misses the 2 November deadline.