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France 24
France 24
L'Equipe TV

FIFA apologises for World Cup private investment controversy

Cover image: FIFA President Gianni Infantino makes comments during the opening ceremony of the International Broadcast Center, June 1, 2026, in Dallas. © T. Gutierrez, AP

FIFA President Gianni Infantino held a crisis meeting on Wednesday in Morocco following the controversy over opening up the World Cup to private investors. In a joint letter with Secretary General Mattias Grafström, he acknowledged "mistakes" and a lack of consultation. Despite the controversy, FIFA officials reiterated their "full support" for the organisation's president.

In the transfer market, Real Madrid are expected to officially announce the arrival of Yan Diomandé after reaching an agreement with Leipzig. The deal, reportedly worth €140 million, would make the Ivorian the most expensive player in the club’s history.

Mohamed Salah arrived in Turkey ahead of signing his contract with Trabzonspor on Thursday.

PSG suffered a 3-0 defeat to Mallorca in a pre-season friendly, one week before the UEFA Super Cup, while Inter Milan and AC Milan drew 1-1, Juventus beat Chelsea 1-0 and Arsenal lost to Real Betis 3-1.

In cycling, Demi Vollering won the fifth stage of the Tour de France Femmes and remains second overall, 12 seconds behind Marlen Reusser. Pauline Ferrand-Prévot lost further ground.

In diving, Jules Bouyer won France’s first European medal with silver in the 3 metre springboard event.

At the Montreal Masters 1000, Terence Atmane, Arthur Fils and Arthur Rinderknech all secured victories, while ⁠Alexander Zverev was knocked out in his opening match.

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