Jordan accuses FIFA of blackmail over World Cup support

Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein of Jordan took to X on Tuesday to allege that FIFA and its president Gianni Infantino pressured his federation during the World Cup, demanding support in exchange for assistance, a claim he says amounts to blackmail.

Jordan entered the tournament as a World Cup debutant, drawn in a group with Austria, Algeria and Argentina. The team lost all three matches, finishing without points.

The federation travelled to the United States on a modest budget. It reported that many supporters were denied entry because of visa problems and that the delegation had to pay additional U.S. taxes.

Even after reaching the Arab Cup final, the Jordan Football Association has been waiting since December for the promised prize money.

FIFA admits mishandling of Forward Enterprise, backs Infantino

"For months FIFA refused to help us, until at the World Cup they said that if I supported Infantino, our association could be helped," the prince said. He added that the demand amounted to coercion.

Jordan ultimately rejected the condition, stating that it would not support Infantino and that his plans clash with the country's ethical values.

FIFA apologises and backs Infantino after meeting in Marruecos

More nations are now voicing criticism of Infantino, prompting him to call an emergency meeting of FIFA members.

The contrast between Jordan's claim of coercion and FIFA's defensive posture highlights a widening rift that could affect future cooperation between the governing body and smaller football associations.