De Laurentiis criticizes Infantino's World Cup plan after receiving lifetime award

Aurelio De Laurentiis, speaking after receiving a lifetime achievement award from Italy's Foreign Press Association, voiced criticism of FIFA President Gianni Infantino over a controversial World Cup plan.

Infantino has faced pressure to resign following his proposal to allow private investors to purchase shares in the World Cup and other major competitions. De Laurentiis stopped short of a direct personal attack but made clear his disapproval of the initiative.

The FIFA chief's privatization scheme has drawn widespread concern within international football circles over its implications for the sport's governance and independence.