The French Football Federation (FFF) is leaning toward withdrawing its support for Gianni Infantino’s bid for a new term as FIFA president, according to a source familiar with the matter. The FFF’s executive committee is meeting at the federation’s headquarters to discuss its position, with an official decision expected Thursday afternoon.
According to the source, withdrawing support appears to be the likely scenario unless there is a significant shift in the coming hours. The FFF was said to be in “total disagreement” with Infantino’s unilateral initiative to open World Cup revenues to private investors.
Infantino to Run in 2027 Despite Controversy
A FIFA spokesperson confirmed to AFP on Saturday that Infantino, who has led the international federation since 2016, will stand for re-election in 2027. This comes despite the crisis sparked by his now-abandoned plan to allow private investors to invest in World Cup revenues.
World football is deeply divided over Infantino’s management style. Critics accuse him of a lack of transparency and of proposing a plan without consultation that would have placed World Cup revenues in a commercial company open to private investors.
Continental Federations Express Opposition
In early August, the continental confederations UEFA (Europe), CONCACAF (North and Central America and the Caribbean), and the AFC (Asia) sent a joint letter to the “football family” expressing their rejection of the FIFA president’s approach.
In contrast, Infantino received “unanimous” support from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), along with backing from part of CONMEBOL (South America), as well as other federations, former players, and political figures, including U.S. President Donald Trump.
Election Set for March 2027 in Rabat
The FIFA presidential election will take place on March 18, 2027, in Rabat, Morocco. So far, Infantino remains the only declared candidate in the race.
Several federations have already withdrawn their support for Infantino, including Sweden, Scotland, Italy, and Belgium, as well as Sándor Csányi of Hungary, one of the eight FIFA vice presidents.