Amid growing criticism of Fifa from several confederations and supporters, Thierry Henry has urged footballers to speak up as a political struggle over the leadership of the international game develops. The former Arsenal and Barcelona attacker, now a television analyst, discussed the issue on Tuesday with Kate Scott and Jamie Carragher ahead of this season’s Champions League coverage on CBS and Paramount.
Henry said players possess far greater influence than they may realize. In his view, modern footballers have the ability to bring about meaningful change if they choose to act collectively.
Fifa has faced mounting public pressure following several controversies connected to the 2026 World Cup. Concerns intensified after reports emerged about Gianni Infantino’s attempts to sell the tournament’s commercial rights. The Fifa president has since attracted substantial criticism, while Uefa has reportedly considered possible legal action against him.
Scott, who presents the CBS panel featuring Henry, Carragher and Micah Richards, previously examined the failed 2021 Super League proposal in an Apple TV documentary. That dispute appeared to place the commercial ambitions of football executives against the interests of players, coaches and supporters. The current controversy surrounding Fifa has developed along similar lines.
Scott said the next stage would be fascinating to watch. She suggested that a significant part of the global football community may now want a change in Fifa’s leadership, much as many people opposed the Super League project. For those who care deeply about the sport, she added, the situation creates an uncomfortable impression.
Infantino has secured re-election twice since taking office in 2016, facing no opponent on either occasion. The next presidential ballot is scheduled for 18 March 2027, and no rival candidate has announced a campaign so far.
Scott said it was difficult to predict the outcome because Infantino has demonstrated considerable skill in navigating football politics. She noted that he understands how to build alliances and use those relationships to strengthen his position.
Henry, however, believes players should have a much more prominent role in the wider discussion.
He argued that footballers can wield enormous influence when they decide to use it, although they do not always recognize the authority they hold. Pointing to major American sports leagues such as the NBA and NFL, Henry observed that organizations often respond when athletes unite behind an issue. Too often, he added, players are expected simply to perform, collect their wages and remain silent.
Henry concluded that public debate alone is unlikely to produce significant change. People may hold different opinions about the controversy, but he maintained that players have more leverage than they understand and can reshape the situation if they are willing to act.
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