By TIN24 Editor Amit Alhat / dpa
Date: June 23, 2026
Berlin: Germany’s 2014 FIFA World Cup-winning captain Philipp Lahm has launched a sharp criticism of FIFA President Gianni Infantino, accusing football’s governing body of damaging the credibility of the world’s biggest sporting event.
Writing in the German newspaper Die Zeit on Tuesday, Lahm expressed concern over Infantino’s close relationship with political leaders, including former US President Donald Trump.
«”The most worrying thing is Gianni Infantino’s closeness to rulers such as Donald Trump,” Lahm wrote.»
The former Bayern Munich defender argued that the World Cup is increasingly being treated as a commercial product rather than a sporting celebration.
«”The World Cup is being sold off. That robs football of credibility,” he stated.»
Lahm also criticized FIFA’s handling of ticket sales for the ongoing tournament in North America, claiming that supporters are not being given transparent information about actual demand while ticket prices continue to rise.
According to Lahm, football is attracting individuals whose interests may not align with the values of the sport.
«”People are involved in football who have something else in mind, something shady,” he added.»
The 42-year-old football legend also opposed the idea of holding the FIFA World Cup every two years, a proposal previously supported by Infantino. Lahm emphasized that the traditional four-year cycle is essential for maintaining the tournament’s significance and long-term impact.
“A tournament needs preparation and follow-up to have a sustainable effect,” Lahm noted.
He further criticized the expanded Club World Cup, arguing that it has intensified the already congested football calendar and increased physical strain on players, especially with matches being played in extreme temperatures.
Despite his criticism, Lahm praised FIFA’s decision to expand the men’s World Cup from 32 to 48 teams, saying it promotes football development across the globe and provides more nations with opportunities to compete on the biggest stage.
Credit: Boris Roessler/dpa
Author: The India News 24
TIN24 (The India News 24) The India News 24 (TIN24) is a Mumbai-based news Digital Media focusing on breaking news, local and regional issues in India, with content primarily in Marathi. It was established with an X (Twitter) presence since July 2022. Owner & News Editor: Amit Alhat Education: BA in Mass Communication Journalism (Graduate) Experience: 12 years in journalism Platforms: - Website: https://theindianews24.in - X (Twitter): https://x.com/the_indianews24 - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theindianews247 - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theindianews_24
