FIFA Leader Claims Global Support Amid Calls For His Exit

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is rejecting calls for him to step down.

In an interview with the BBC, Infantino laughed off the question of whether he had considered resigning. He argued that he retains overwhelming support from football's member associations around the world. The pressure on his position stems from a failed proposal. The FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) plan was designed to bring private investment into a new entity. This entity would have controlled commercial rights for major FIFA competitions. Infantino abandoned the plan, which led to calls for him to leave his post about three months ago.

However, his standing has recently strengthened. On Friday, Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa endorsed Infantino for a fourth term. Sheikh Salman stated that Asia is united behind him. This followed a period where major football bodies, including UEFA and CONCACAF, had criticized the FFE proposal. While Europe has continued to voice opposition, divisions within CONCACAF and the AFC's recent endorsement have left European associations increasingly isolated. This shift has also highlighted the lack of a viable alternative candidate for the presidency.

Infantino has been traveling to secure support. He recently returned from Tokyo, where the AFC gave its full backing, and from Cape Verde, where all African countries did the same. He told the BBC, "I was elected by 211 member associations from all over the world." He acknowledged that in an organization like FIFA, different points of view are expected. However, he said that anyone who values democracy and equal votes must respect the views of "the vast, vast majority." He added that he is speaking with associations across the globe.

At a FIFA Council meeting in Zurich last week, Infantino apologized for how the FFE proposal was handled. This apology did not change the minds of European football associations, including Germany and England, who have maintained their criticism. Despite this, Infantino adopted a conciliatory tone. "It's OK to disagree," he said, "but then we need to be able to move on." He acknowledged that bringing together differing views is not always easy, but stated that he respects all opinions.

Infantino is seeking a fourth term that would extend until 2031. The decision on his future will be made by FIFA's member associations, who will determine who they want as president and how the organization is run. Potential candidates must submit their nominations by November 18. For now, Infantino maintains that he is in a position of strength and has the support needed to continue.