In a surprise move, FIFA President Gianni Infantino is set to hold an emergency call with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, just hours after facing intense scrutiny over a controversy surrounding his role in a proposed World Cup expansion. The call, scheduled for shortly after 9am Eastern Time, is expected to be a high-stakes conversation, with Infantino's future at the helm of world soccer hanging precariously in the balance. The Swiss-Italian sports leader has been under fire from fans, sponsors, and even some FIFA officials over allegations of impropriety in his handling of the World Cup expansion, and a meeting with the top US diplomat could be a crucial turning point in the crisis. As the world of soccer continues to reel from the scandal, Infantino's meeting with Blinken will be closely watched for any signs of a resolution or further fallout.
Two sources familiar with the matter said the under-fire Swiss-Italian sports suit will hold a call with Donald Trump's top diplomat just after 9am Eastern Time.
