A fresh storm has erupted in world football after La Liga president Javier Tebas launched a scathing attack on FIFA and its president, Gianni Infantino, accusing the governing body of “destroying the football industry” and insisting that the time has come for new leadership.
Speaking in an interview with Italian newspaper *La Gazzetta dello Sport*, Tebas did not hold back in his criticism of FIFA’s recent direction. The Spanish football chief argued that the governing body has become too focused on expanding international competitions while neglecting the domestic leagues and clubs that form the foundation of the sport.
When asked directly whether Infantino should step down, Tebas gave a blunt response.
> “In my opinion, yes. I think his time is up.”
His comments are the latest chapter in a long-running dispute between La Liga and FIFA over the increasingly crowded football calendar.
Tebas believes FIFA’s plans to continue expanding the men’s World Cup, including discussions around increasing the 2030 tournament from 48 to 64 teams, would place even greater pressure on players and clubs. According to him, domestic competitions generate the majority of football’s jobs, revenues, and long-term sustainability, while international tournaments occupy only a small portion of the calendar.
The La Liga president also criticized what he described as FIFA making major decisions without sufficient consultation with domestic leagues. He argued that commercial interests are increasingly taking priority over the welfare of players and the long-term health of the game.
Despite his criticism, Tebas acknowledged that removing Infantino from office would be difficult. He claimed the FIFA president continues to enjoy strong backing from national football federations around the world, making any challenge to his leadership unlikely ahead of the next FIFA presidential election.
FIFA has not publicly responded to Tebas’ latest remarks.
The comments have reignited debate across football, with supporters divided over FIFA’s expansion of major tournaments. While some believe more teams create greater global opportunities, others agree with Tebas that an increasingly congested schedule risks harming domestic football and player welfare.
With discussions over the future of the international calendar continuing, the tension between FIFA and Europe’s top domestic leagues shows no sign of easing, setting the stage for another major governance battle in world football.
