18.8.2026
Vice president of European football governing body Laura McAllister said the sacking of FIFA chief operating officer Kevin Lamour was deeply troubling for all yearning for a change at the world football governing body.
FIFA announced the departure of Mr. Lamour on Monday evening after voicing his opposition to FIFA’s president Gianni Ifantino’s failed bid to sell football stake to private concerns. UEFA, CONCACAF and AFC the North America and Asia federations have called for the resignation of Infantino, but it seems to be digging in.
Speaking on the firing of Lamour, McAllister, a former Wales captain said: “I know Kevin Lamour to be an honourable and exemplary sports leader who was a trusted colleague of mine when I was first elected to UEFA Ex Co.
“Kevin is not only a deeply principled leader who cares passionately for football, but a brave advocate for the values that should underpin all we do as custodians of our game.
“During the shabby events of the past weeks, he showed himself to be a courageous advocate for the most important stakeholders in football.
“Having worked with Kevin, I know that his leadership always operates on principles of respect, independence, transparency and sound governance.
“Kevin’s sacking seriously weakens FIFA’s administration, whilst undermining this unique opportunity to shift the culture at FIFA and to reset the organisation on sporting values, not simply commercial and financial ones. FIFA is not the president; it is the whole football family.
“As I have said repeatedly, world football needs strong, principled, independent leaders who are prepared to speak up, challenge when necessary, and stand firmly by their values and those of the global game.
“Instead, the loss of a leader of Kevin’s calibre sends a deeply troubling message to all of us seeking change.”
Lamour was not part of the FIFA management board meeting in Morocco on 5 August where “full support” was declared by the board for Infantino.