Gianni Infantino's powerful opponents have reportedly formed an alliance in a plot to 'paralyse' the embattled FIFA president. The leaders of UEFA, CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) are ready to stage their own international tournaments if Infantino refuses to offer his resignation in the wake of his latest and most widely criticised scandal.
Private equity plan sparks backlash
Infantino's idea to sell off stakes in FIFA's tournaments, including the World Cup, to private equity funds, has caused key stakeholders to withdraw their support after major opposition from the sporting world. Infantino is battling to save his job and has reportedly held talks with Donald Trump's administration in order to present a position of strength.
The Times claim that the leaders of UEFA, CONCACAF and AFC have come together with a plan to 'paralyse' FIFA if Infantino fails to step down. If the 56-year-old opts to try and retain his position in next March's FIFA elections, the three federations are prepared to stage their own international competition as a direct rival of the governing body.
Boycott threat and dwindling support
The trio are also willing to form a government boycott, effectively meaning they would refuse to accept FIFA decisions or be involved in council meetings. Infantino needs 106 votes to keep hold of power and his support is dwindling among the 211 FIFA members. English and Welsh FAs were the first to publicly oppose Infantino, threatening to withdraw their previous letters of support.
The English FA called for a full FIFA investigation, while Wales issued a statement that read: “The Football Association of Wales hereby confirms its withdrawal of support for the candidature of Mr. Gianni Infantino, for re-election as FIFA President for the 2027–2031 term.
“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.”
Potential successor and US talks denied
No candidate to oppose Infantino next year has been publicly announced, but CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani is expected to be a contender to take over. Multiple reports emerged on Monday that Infantino was planning talks with Trump's administration in the wake of his latest blow, causing the US State Department to deny claims that he was scheduled to meet with Marco Rubio, the United States secretary of state, in a bid to stoke up support.
