FIFA’s decision to dismiss the high-ranking official who accused Gianni Infantino of misleading staff with his World Cup financial scheme has sparked criticism from Norway soccer head Lise Klaveness. Klaveness urged other leaders within the organization to resist potentially harmful directives.

The removal of FIFA’s chief operating officer, Kevin Lamour, occurred 17 days after he voiced concerns to the Associated Press about Infantino’s $20 billion private equity plan, which was subsequently halted. Klaveness expressed her discontent, labeling Lamour’s dismissal as “unacceptable” and a form of “management by fear.” She praised Lamour as “the best football administrator” she had encountered.

In a call to action, Klaveness called upon FIFA’s leadership and administration to uphold the best interests of football and not comply with directives that may be detrimental. She particularly singled out FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström for scrutiny.

Lamour, who previously worked closely with Infantino at UEFA and FIFA, had been a vocal critic of Infantino’s leadership, causing a rift within FIFA. His opposition to Infantino’s secretive proposal to sell future World Cup revenues to investors had led to his departure, with Lamour emphasizing the need for transparency and fair treatment of FIFA staff.

Despite the backlash and internal turmoil, Infantino received support from senior management during a meeting in Rabat, Morocco. The FIFA statement issued after the meeting acknowledged past errors and reiterated the attendees’ backing of Infantino’s presidency.

Klaveness condemned the culture of fear within FIFA and emphasized the importance of acting in the best interests of football. The upheaval surrounding Infantino’s controversial financial plan has brought uncertainty to his anticipated reelection next year in Morocco, with the deadline for potential challengers to enter the race set for November 18.