Zurich: FIFA has reaffirmed its support for Gianni Infantino's leadership, dismissing any attempts to hold a presidential election outside of its statutory framework, as divisions surrounding his governance grow ahead of his bid for a fourth term. The organization emphasized that any process concerning the election of the FIFA President must adhere to FIFA's statutes, democratic procedures, and established governance framework.
According to Anadolu Agency, FIFA declared that Infantino was democratically elected by its Member Associations and continues to serve with their mandate. This statement aligns with recent positions from the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), along with discussions with member associations and confederations worldwide. FIFA accused unnamed individuals of attempting to undermine its operations and president through allegations and misinformation, rather than employing democratic processes.
The statement was issued following reports by The Daily Telegraph regarding payments made by UEFA to a former employee during Infantino's tenure as its general secretary. Infantino and FIFA have rejected these allegations as unfounded. This controversy has heightened the divisions concerning Infantino's leadership, overshadowing his pursuit of a fourth term at the FIFA Congress in Morocco in March, with no clear challenger in sight.
UEFA has expressed a lack of confidence in Infantino, while Norwegian Football Federation President Lise Klaveness called for his resignation, citing a lack of institutional trust. Nonetheless, Infantino retains substantial support among FIFA's 211 member associations. CAF has unanimously endorsed his leadership, and CONMEBOL has opposed any effort to remove him without a vote by all FIFA members. Mexico's football federation has also shown support for Infantino, despite CONCACAF's call for a comprehensive review of his presidency.
FIFA defended Infantino's contributions to football, highlighting his over 30 years of service to European and world football, and his efforts in expanding access, resources, and opportunities across the sport. FIFA emphasized its commitment to legitimate scrutiny while warning against the distortion of facts and the amplification of unsubstantiated allegations aimed at undermining its progress. FIFA reiterated its dedication to its 211 Member Associations and its mission to strengthen the organization and make football truly global.