FIFA’s ousting of the top official who accused Gianni Infantino of misleading staff with his World Cup business plan faced criticism from Norway soccer chief Lise Klaveness on Tuesday. Klaveness urged other leaders within the organization to resist potentially harmful directives.
Kevin Lamour, FIFA’s chief operating officer, was removed late Monday, just 17 days after he publicly criticized Infantino’s $20 billion private equity initiative, which was subsequently scrapped. Klaveness expressed discontent over Lamour’s dismissal, labeling it as “unacceptable” and reflective of a leadership style based on fear.
As a former Norway national team player, Oslo judge, and UEFA executive committee member, Klaveness emphasized the importance of FIFA’s leadership not succumbing to directives that are detrimental to football’s interests. Lamour, who had a long-standing professional relationship with Infantino, raised concerns about the lack of transparency surrounding the failed World Cup profit-sharing scheme.
Amidst escalating tensions, Lamour’s rebuke of Infantino’s management style further exacerbated the crisis surrounding the FIFA president. The controversial plan to sell future World Cup revenues to investors triggered backlash from various soccer bodies, including UEFA and CONCACAF.
Klaveness underscored the significance of Lamour’s disclosure, stating that it was crucial for shedding light on the situation and preventing the misguided project from proceeding. She criticized the decision to dismiss Lamour, asserting that it was not a voluntary resignation but rather a result of external pressure within FIFA’s leadership.
Following Lamour’s departure, FIFA issued a statement thanking him for his service and wished him well in his future endeavors. Klaveness commended Lamour for his courageous stance and noted the necessity of transparency within FIFA’s operations.
Despite internal struggles within FIFA, Infantino received backing from senior management during a crisis meeting in Morocco. Klaveness raised concerns about the atmosphere of fear within the organization and stressed the importance of prioritizing football’s best interests.
Prior to the controversy surrounding Infantino’s proposed business venture, his reelection as FIFA president seemed assured. However, the fallout from the failed project has cast uncertainty over his candidacy, with the deadline for potential challengers to enter the race set for November 18.