The SAFF statement expressed support for Infantino's efforts to restore global unity in football, saying: "At this time, SAFF supports the continued efforts of FIFA President Gianni Infantino and FIFA's leadership to restore unity across the football family and continue growing the game for the benefit of all." The federation also urged FIFA leaders to hold direct face-to-face dialogue with all concerns addressed openly.
Infantino has built close ties with Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during his 10-year presidency. The two attended a Saudi-backed video gaming event in Paris on Sunday. The 2034 World Cup will be hosted by Saudi Arabia. Infantino has not called a meeting of his 37-member FIFA Council, which includes Saudi official Yasser Al Misehal, since the criticism began.
The FIFA commercial subsidiary project, valued at $20 billion, was at the centre of the criticism. The Asian Football Confederation, UEFA, and Concacaf have criticised Infantino for "deception" and "breach of trust" by secretly negotiating with private investors to sell a 20% stake in the planned subsidiary.