European nations are planning to ramp up pressure on Gianni Infantino by collectively withdrawing letters of support for his re-election as FIFA President.
Infantino’s position hangs in the balance. His private proposal to sell stakes in World Cup competitions has collapsed, and threats from UEFA member associations to boycott future FIFA tournaments have compounded his troubles. Tensions remain high across Europe, with widespread calls for his departure in the near future.
Amid rebellion from members of the FIFA Council, Gianni Infantino could face a leadership challenge.
Numerous national football associations are now discussing formally withdrawing their backing for Infantino to push forward his resignation, with statements expected in the coming days.
Before the crisis erupted last week, all 55 UEFA member associations except Germany, Romania and Norway had sent letters endorsing Infantino’s bid to stand for another term as FIFA President next March, seemingly securing the Swiss national a fourth term.
There are proposals for all associations to withdraw support simultaneously, though a staggered withdrawal by individual federations is also possible. Such action would effectively amount to a vote of no confidence and intensify pressure for him to step down. Any federation wishing to revoke its letter of support must notify FIFA.
UEFA continues consultations with other continental confederations. Although Infantino’s FIFA Forward Enterprises proposal was rejected, several AFC member federations publicly voiced their support for him over the weekend. Sources within European football question whether these Asian federations fully grasp the scale of opposition facing Infantino.
After wealthy Qatar publicly backed Infantino on Saturday, smaller Asian federations Sri Lanka and Kuwait declared their support on Sunday. However, the AFC rarely votes as a bloc, meaning some federations dissatisfied with Infantino may side with UEFA.
As revealed by The Guardian in July, more than 200 out of FIFA’s 211 member associations submitted letters supporting Infantino.
It is understood that even when his tenure appeared secure, FIFA exerted heavy pressure on wavering members. Many gave their public backing despite private reservations about his presidency. Nevertheless, patience across Europe and around the globe has worn thin.
Efforts to identify a successor to Infantino are accelerating. Any nominated candidate will need substantial support outside Europe, particularly from the AFC and CONCACAF. Finding a viable challenger quickly could be crucial to convincing Infantino that his position is precarious.
Infantino appears determined to stay in office and is believed to be lobbying member associations worldwide to secure continued backing.
However, CAF and CONMEBOL fully support Infantino. As UEFA members push for new FIFA leadership, Asia and North America will emerge as key battlegrounds.
