La Liga chief Tebas slams FIFA, calls for Infantino to resign

La Liga president Javier Tebas has launched a blistering attack on FIFA, accusing the world football governing body of destroying the sport with lies as preparations intensify for the upcoming World Cup.

Tebas demanded that FIFA president Gianni Infantino resign, claiming the organisation has lost all credibility. His remarks were reported by multiple international outlets on Tuesday.

Tebas: 'FIFA are destroying football with lies'

Speaking to reporters, Tebas did not hold back. He accused FIFA of misleading fans, clubs, and national associations about the true cost and impact of the expanded World Cup format.

“FIFA are destroying football with lies,” Tebas said. “Infantino must go. It is his time to leave.” The Spanish football chief did not provide specific examples of the alleged lies but insisted the damage to the sport was already visible.

Blatter joins the chorus

In a surprising twist, former FIFA president Sepp Blatter has backed Tebas’s call. Blatter, who led FIFA for 17 years before being ousted in a corruption scandal, said it was time to “reclaim football” from the current leadership.

Blatter’s support adds weight to the criticism, though his own legacy remains controversial. He was banned from football activities for six years in 2015 over ethics violations related to corruption and bribery.

Infantino under mounting pressure

Infantino has faced growing opposition from European football bodies, including La Liga, over FIFA's handling of the World Cup schedule, player welfare, and commercial deals.

Critics argue that the expansion of the tournament to 48 teams from 2026 will overburden players and dilute the quality of competition. FIFA has defended the changes as necessary for global growth of the sport.

Tebas has been one of Infantino's most vocal critics. He previously opposed plans for a biennial World Cup, calling it a cash grab that would destroy domestic leagues.

What happens next

FIFA has not yet responded to Tebas’s latest outburst. Infantino is expected to address the media later this week at a scheduled event in Zurich. Whether the resignations calls gain traction among other major leagues remains to be seen.