FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed his intention to run for re-election, announced the global soccer governing body on Sunday. Infantino has been under scrutiny for his unsuccessful proposal to sell shares in the World Cup. Despite mounting calls for his resignation, FIFA revealed that Infantino will campaign for a fourth and final term in office, aiming to extend his leadership until 2031.
In response to criticisms, a FIFA spokesperson reaffirmed that Infantino had previously declared his candidacy for re-election in 2027 and remains steadfast in his decision. European soccer’s governing body, UEFA, has been vocal in demanding Infantino’s departure, citing a loss of trust and even hinting at a potential boycott of FIFA events, including the World Cup. Several national associations, such as the English FA, have withdrawn their support for Infantino’s re-election bid.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 plans when approached on Saturday. FIFA has acknowledged mistakes in its controversial plan to commercialize World Cup profits and has vowed to prevent similar errors in the future. However, these measures have not alleviated the mounting pressure on Infantino’s leadership.
The deadline for candidates to enter the upcoming presidential election falls on November 18, four months before the scheduled vote. Infantino expressed that while there are matters to address, the appropriate time and place for such discussions will be chosen accordingly.
