Rabat: FIFA president Gianni Infantino has received the “full support” of senior directors but world football’s governing body has apologized for the controversy surrounding the plan to open the World Cup to private investment.

According to France24.com, FIFA’s leadership, facing criticism after the proposal was leaked, admitted to making “errors” while still backing Infantino in a crisis meeting held in Morocco. The plan, which suggested creating a subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) to handle events like the World Cup, was touted as a potential $4.2 billion revenue generator. However, it caused a backlash, leading to UEFA threatening to boycott the World Cup.

Infantino withdrew the plan, acknowledging the errors, and emphasized the intention to unite and improve. Following Wednesday’s meeting in Rabat, FIFA reiterated support for Infantino, acknowledging mistakes in handling the proposal. A separate apology was issued to FIFA Council and Member Associations, ensuring future prevention of such errors.

The FFE proposal, which required approval from FIFA Member Associations and the FIFA Council, is now off the table. FIFA’s Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom, who criticized the plan internally, was believed to be part of the meeting. A review is underway, with a report expected at the next FIFA Council meeting.

Infantino, attending a match in Rabat, was supported by the Moroccan Football chief, who praised his decision to scrap the plan. Despite recent challenges, Infantino’s prospects for a fourth term seemed likely, with no candidates opposing him. However, UEFA and other bodies criticized his leadership, questioning his governance. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also expressed a lack of confidence in Infantino’s leadership.