FIFA’s Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour has exited the organization, as confirmed by FIFA on Monday. This move follows Lamour’s public criticism of President Gianni Infantino’s proposal to sell a share in FIFA’s tournament operations, including the prestigious World Cup.
A FIFA spokesperson announced the termination of Lamour’s role, expressing gratitude for his two years of service and wishing him success in his future endeavors. The spokesperson indicated that no further comments would be provided on the matter.
The departure of Lamour was communicated to FIFA staff and Council members by FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom in a letter on Monday. Sky News reported that both parties mutually agreed to part ways after recent discussions.
Lamour had voiced his opposition to the proposal, alleging that FIFA staff had been misled and denouncing it as the brainchild of an individual. He emphasized that their duty is to football and not to serve the personal agenda of someone who perceives themselves as FIFA’s embodiment rather than its servant.
The critique from Lamour came shortly after Carlos Cordeiro, a senior adviser to Infantino, resigned in protest against the proposal, labeling it as detrimental to football. Lamour had joined FIFA in November 2024 and was previously associated with Infantino’s inner circle during the campaign for his presidency in 2016.
