FIFA president Gianni Infantino is under significant pressure after a backlash to his recent proposals, with several football associations withdrawing their support and others calling for a review of his leadership.
Plans shelved after backlash
Infantino came under fire after efforts to sell stakes in FIFA competitions to private investors. The plans were ultimately shelved, but not before UEFA threatened to boycott future FIFA competitions if they went through. Senior advisor Carlos Cordeiro quit, saying: "I cannot stand by while FIFA considers selling a stake in the World Cup".
England and Wales withdraw support
The England and Wales FAs had previously written letters of support for Infantino ahead of his reelection bid. However, reports this week indicated that both would withdraw their support in light of the fresh controversy.
The Football Association of Wales (FAW) issued a statement: "The recent failures in good governance, processes, leadership, values, stakeholder management, communications and sound judgement have led us to a position where Mr Infantino has lost the confidence of the FAW to remain at the helm of world football. Failing to put the best interests of football first is a failure we cannot accept."
Other opponents
UEFA has not ruled out extreme measures such as a vote of no confidence in Infantino, while CONCACAF has called for a full review of his leadership. The AFC, representing Asian nations, said it stood in solidarity with UEFA and CONCACAF. Serbia and Finland have also individually withdrawn support, while Denmark, Sweden and Norway are all opposing him, with some of their criticism pre-dating the latest proposals.
Supporters and potential successors
Only 15 football associations are reported to have backed Infantino, among them Morocco, Qatar, Kuwait, Lebanon and Sri Lanka, though an official list has not been shared. Egypt is also among that number, with their FA saying: "The Egyptian association renews its full confidence in the leadership of FIFA president Gianni Infantino, and affirms its continued support for any initiatives that serve the interests of FIFA member associations and the future of world football."
Victor Montagliani has emerged as a front-runner should Infantino leave his post. The Canadian businessman has served as CONCACAF president since 2016 and was involved in his country co-hosting the 2026 World Cup. Other potential names mentioned include AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and FIFA secretary general Matthias Grafstrom.
