French President Emmanuel Macron is reported to have played a decisive role in the withdrawal of FIFA's controversial plan to allow private investment in international football competitions.
According to French newspaper L'Équipe, Macron became heavily involved behind the scenes, despite not having spoken publicly about the crisis affecting world football's governing body.
"There is strong mobilisation on the part of the President of the Republic," a source close to Mr Macron was quoted as saying, confirming that the Élysée Palace had been closely monitoring developments.
FIFA's intention to allow the entry of private capital reportedly triggered an immediate reaction from the French president.
Mr Macron, who is said to be firmly opposed to the proposal, held a telephone conversation with FIFA president Gianni Infantino. During the call, he reportedly asked that "the unity of world football be preserved, avoiding divisions".
Mr Infantino subsequently abandoned the plan. However, Mr Macron is said to be continuing to monitor the matter closely.
So far, he has not publicly called for the departure of the FIFA president, as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer had reportedly advocated, instead opting for a more cautious approach.
At the same time, the report states that "France fully supports Aleksander Čeferin," aligning itself with UEFA's position.
The European governing body had expressed strong opposition to the plan from the outset and was reportedly even considering legal action.
Mr Macron's intervention adds to the pressure on Mr Infantino, who is increasingly portrayed as isolated over the issue.
Meanwhile, the dispute over the future of international football competitions has highlighted deep divisions within the global game.
