FIFA defends Infantino as UEFA plots presidential challenger

Published Jul 22, 12:24 PM UTC

FIFA has strongly defended President Gianni Infantino amid reports that several European football associations, including Germany, Spain, and Norway, are quietly planning to back a challenger in the upcoming FIFA presidential election. The election is scheduled for March 18, 2027, at the 77th FIFA Congress in Rabat, Morocco. Infantino, in office since 2016, has run unopposed in the last two elections. UEFA members hope to spark debate over governance despite Infantino's broad global support. A senior FIFA source dismissed the threat, citing the success of the expanded 2026 World Cup and Infantino's backing by over 200 associations. The source emphasized that Infantino's efforts are appreciated by the overwhelming majority of world football, pointing to financial and sporting achievements.