FIFA President Gianni Infantino intends to run for re-election, as confirmed by the global soccer governing body on Sunday. Infantino has come under scrutiny for his unsuccessful proposal to sell shares in the World Cup. Despite widespread calls for his resignation, FIFA announced that Infantino will vie for a fourth and final term in office until 2031.
“The decision remains unchanged as Mr. Infantino will be a candidate for re-election in 2027,” stated a FIFA spokesperson, reiterating Infantino’s intention. Various stakeholders, including UEFA, have urged Infantino to step down, citing a loss of trust in his leadership. UEFA even threatened to boycott FIFA competitions, such as the World Cup. Several national associations, including the English FA, have withdrawn their support for Infantino’s re-election bid.
During the opening of the Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland, Infantino declined to comment on his future when approached on Saturday. FIFA has acknowledged mistakes in its controversial plan to commercialize World Cup profits and has pledged to prevent similar errors in the future. However, these actions have not alleviated the mounting pressure on Infantino’s position.
The deadline for candidates to enter the upcoming presidential race is November 18, precisely four months before the election day. Infantino expressed that there will be an appropriate time and place to address concerns about his future.
