Gianni Infantino is on course to be elected as FIFA president for a fourth and final term, with the possibility of returning unopposed as the deadline for candidacies approaches on November 18.
The latest boost came in the form of an endorsement from Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa Salman, president of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Speaking at the confederation's Congress in Tokyo, which Infantino attended, Sheikh Salman said: "We reaffirm our full commitment, of course, to supporting you as you seek a new mandate as president."
Major U-Turn by Sheikh Salman
This marks a significant reversal for Sheikh Salman, who just two months ago co-signed a joint letter with the heads of Uefa and Concacaf criticising Infantino over his failed World Cup sell-off plan.
That earlier letter accused Infantino of "deception" and a "profound failure of judgement," stating "these are not the qualities football deserves in its leadership."
Now, however, Sheikh Salman said it was time "to move forward." He added: "I've spoken to a lot of members within this continent. I know your feeling and I think your commitment is clear as well. Your support to Gianni is very clear. Yes, we had some issues, we spoke about them in the past, but let's not relate the two things together. As one Asian family, we are ready to move forward, united in your support, Gianni."
Continental Support and Election Votes
Infantino already has a strong power base in Africa and South America, and Sheikh Salman's endorsement could prove crucial as it means the FIFA president has those continents sewn up.
At the election in Rabat in March, Uefa will have 55 votes, Africa 54, Asia 46, Concacaf 35, Oceania 11 and Conmebol 10.
Challengers and Opposition
The only serious rival to publicly declare is former Tottenham and Switzerland defender Ramon Vega. Any candidate needs the support of five national associations to make the ballot paper, and Vega believes his campaign has the necessary backing.
There has been clamour for Arsene Wenger to stand, but there is no public suggestion he is ready to go head-to-head against Infantino. The reluctance likely stems from the risk of losing to Infantino, which would be damaging.
Infantino appeared damaged beyond repair after the summer but has since gone on a global charm offensive that appears to have worked, outside of UEFA. He has also proposed increasing the amount of money handed out for football development across the world by $3.4bn (£2.6bn).
Uefa has told FIFA it must release key documents and answer all questions relating to its governance and decision-making by 2 November. But the reality is that Infantino is winning his fight.
