Fifa President Gianni Infantino has apologised for mistakes in his controversial private investment proposal but secured the backing of senior executives in Rabat, Morocco, despite mounting international criticism and calls for his resignation.

Fifa President Gianni Infantino has apologised for "errors" made in plans to sell stakes in competitions to private investors, but will continue in his role after receiving support from the organisation's management board. The meeting was held in Rabat, Morocco on Wednesday, following weeks of criticism surrounding the now-abandoned Fifa Forward Enterprise proposal. In a signed letter to Fifa's vice-presidents and 211 member associations, Infantino and secretary general Mattias Grafstrom expressed their apologies and committed to preventing similar incidents in future.

The proposal would have offered each national association $40 million in exchange for backing private investment in major tournaments, including the men's and women's World Cups. Fifa acknowledged that "mistakes" were made and that the process should have involved greater consultation with member associations. The governing body also stated that errors occurred in how the proposal was handled after it was leaked to media in late July. However, Fifa added that it will not tolerate future attacks on its integrity or governance.

Despite the show of internal support, opposition remains strong internationally. European football's governing body Uefa has withdrawn confidence in Infantino's leadership and threatened legal action, while former Barcelona player Luis Figo called on him to resign immediately. Prime Minister Mark Carney of Canada also expressed lost confidence. Several national associations, including Wales, have withdrawn their support for Infantino's re-election campaign. However, outside Europe, support has largely held firm, with countries including Egypt, Morocco, and the Philippines backing the president, many of whom have benefited from Fifa's funding programmes.

Infantino, aged 56, intends to seek a fourth term as president. Candidates have until 18 November to declare their intention to run against him, with the election scheduled for Fifa's Congress in Morocco in March 2027. Any candidate will require 106 votes from Fifa's 211 members to win.