The week that shook Gianni Infantino, FIFA and global soccer

The week that shook Gianni Infantino, FIFA and global soccer

Author: The Athletic August 4, 2026 Duration: 27:47

Hot off the heels of the 2026 men’s World Cup – FIFA president Gianni Infantino unveiled a proposal to sell a stake in FIFA competitions to private investors. After widespread condemnation from the public and FIFA member associations, the proposal has been scrapped.


Now the question is: Can Infantino hold onto his grip on the FIFA presidency? What is next for FIFA? And, what did this all mean for the women’s game?


On this episode of Full Time, Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Megan Feringa to take the listener inside the week that shook FIFA and the move that could cost Infantino everything. Megan also reacts to Monday’s breaking news that Manchester United manager Marc Skinner has left the English Women’s Super League club by mutual consent.


PLUS: Asli Pelit hops on the pod and breaks down the best moments from the NWSL weekend, including Gotham FC’s journey to the top, the Royals’ big win over the Thorns and Jess Fishlock keeping the time on its toes.

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HOST: Jillian Sakovits

GUESTS: Asli Pelit, Megan Feringa

PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes

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Referenced on the show:

Inside the week that shook Gianni Infantino, FIFA and the football world

FIFA scraps World Cup private investment plans as Infantino fights for his future

UEFA threatens FIFA, Joshua Kushner with legal action over World Cup investment plan

English FA to withdraw support for Gianni Infantino’s FIFA re-election

Gotham and USWNT defender Emily Sonnett to miss remainder of NWSL season after knee surgery

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For anyone who lives and breathes the beautiful game as played by women, Full Time: A show about women's soccer is your essential audio companion. This isn't just a recap show; it's a deep, thoughtful, and often lively exploration of the entire ecosystem. Produced by the journalists at The Athletic, the podcast delivers expert analysis and storytelling you can trust, moving seamlessly from the latest U.S. women’s national team drama to the week's pivotal NWSL results and major stories from leagues across Europe and the globe. Three times a week, hosts Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin, and Jillian Sakovits break down the matches, but more importantly, they dig into the culture, context, and consequential conversations that define the sport's moment. You'll hear from fellow reporters, players, coaches, and insiders who provide unique perspectives you won't find anywhere else. Whether it's a transfer saga, a tactical revolution, or a discussion about the broader impact of the game, this is where the narrative gets unpacked. Tune in for a blend of immediate reaction, investigative reporting, and the kind of informed debate that mirrors the passion of the fans themselves. This podcast goes beyond the final whistle to deliver the full story.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Full Time: A show about women's soccer
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