Nasser Al-Khelaifi will not stand against Gianni Infantino in next year's FIFA presidential election, despite being urged by UEFA to do so. The Paris Saint-Germain chairman and BeIN Media Group head was considered a potential candidate to unseat Infantino, who faces criticism over FIFA's commercial plans and this summer's World Cup in North America.
However, Al-Khelaifi has no intention of entering the race, a source told RMC Sport: "Nasser has absolutely no ambition, no intention, nor any interest in this role at FIFA. He will continue to quietly support all global and European football institutions."
No Challenge from Al-Khelaifi
Senior figures at UEFA reportedly saw the 52-year-old as the right man to challenge Infantino's presidency, particularly after backlash over FIFA's proposal to sell parts of its commercial rights. Al-Khelaifi, who also chairs the European Football Clubs association, has been vocal in opposing that scheme. But insiders close to him have dismissed any speculation of a candidacy next March, stressing his priorities lie elsewhere.
Infantino is considered difficult to unseat, given strong backing from associations in South America, Asia, and Africa.
UEFA Vows to Continue Fight
Despite Al-Khelaifi's refusal, UEFA said it would keep looking for a contender. In a statement on Wednesday, the governing body said: "Today we have learned of FIFA's deadline to associations to support their proposals or have the one-off payout offer withdrawn. This says everything you need to know about this plan. But having held discussions with many stakeholders across the game, UEFA knows there is significant and growing opposition to FIFA's scheme. FIFA cannot continue to use our sport to enrich themselves and their friends. We can grow the game correctly. It's time to prioritise associations, clubs, leagues, players and fans."
