‘Maybe He Should Be Sent To A Psychiatric Ward’: Ex-FIFA Boss Blatter Slams Successor Infantino

Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter has launched a scathing attack on his successor, Gianni Infantino, calling him a “dictator” who is “untouchable” and suggesting he needs psychiatric help.

The remarks were made in an interview with German magazine Der Spiegel, published on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, ValidViewNetwork reports .

THE ATTACK

Blatter, who ran FIFA from 1998 to 2016, did not hold back. “FIFA is suffering. It is currently led by a man who has allowed himself to be blinded,” he said.

He was particularly critical of Infantino’s leadership style. “Infantino is a dictator. People at FIFA tell me that no one is allowed to ride in the elevator with him. He is ‘untouchable,’ ” Blatter said.

He also suggested that Infantino’s conduct warranted professional intervention. “He doesn’t understand any of this. I mean, maybe someone should send Infantino to a psychiatric ward”.

THE CONTEXT

Blatter’s attack comes a week before the deadline for candidates to declare their intention to run for the FIFA presidency. The election is scheduled for March 2027 .

According to Blatter, UEFA is planning to field a rival candidate to challenge Infantino. “There is a plan by UEFA. Next week, they will name a rival candidate,” he said.

He named Sebastian Coe, the British president of World Athletics, as his preferred candidate. “He has a strong personality. A president from the birthplace of football—England—would be good,” Blatter said .

THE DENIAL

FIFA has denied Blatter’s allegations, stating that Infantino’s travels are part of his duties as president and that the composition of FIFA’s committees is in accordance with the statutes. The organisation also stated that Infantino uses the elevator with other people present.

THE ANALYTICAL LENS

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Sepp Blatter is not an impartial observer. He was forced out of FIFA in disgrace amid corruption investigations. His opinion of his successor is coloured by his own history.

But his words carry weight because they reflect a broader discontent within the football world.

Infantino has been criticised for his autocratic style, his close relationship with Donald Trump, and his failed attempt to sell commercial rights to the World Cup.

Whether UEFA can actually unseat him is another matter. Infantino has spent years cultivating relationships with national associations, and he retains strong support in Africa, Asia, and South America.

The election is in March. The challenger has not yet been named. And Blatter, from the sidelines, is watching. ValidViewNetwork reports.