In a recent interview on the British podcast “The Rest is Politics: Leading,” UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin made clear that he will not enter the race for FIFA president against incumbent Gianni Infantino. Ceferin said his decision is driven by his love for UEFA and a desire to enjoy life outside the demanding role.
Ceferin’s warning to Infantino
While declining to run, Ceferin warned Infantino that he must either step down or prepare for a leadership challenge at the FIFA election scheduled for March. He noted that Infantino’s support is waning among the broader football community, including fans, players, former players, and coaches.
“One option is that he realizes that he doesn’t have the support, and that’s not only a political support of the ones who vote, but the political support of football community, the political support of fans, the political support of the players, former players, coaches,” Ceferin said.
Ceferin added that if Infantino chooses to stay in the race, “I think he will have a candidate against him. I don’t know yet who.”
Background on the controversy
The call for Infantino’s resignation stems from his aborted plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private‑equity investors, a proposal that sparked criticism from three continental confederations. Those bodies accused Infantino of deception, and UEFA itself threatened to boycott FIFA competitions unless the issue is resolved.
Infantino, who has led FIFA since 2016, was widely expected to run unopposed in the upcoming election in Morocco. FIFA has set a November 18 deadline for challengers to file nominations.
Ceferin’s focus on UEFA
At 58, Ceferin emphasized his commitment to UEFA, stating, “I’m not interested because of two reasons. One reason is that I love UEFA and I love working here, and I think that at a certain point … it’s time to also enjoy life a bit.” He also mentioned that his credibility would remain higher if he does not pursue the FIFA presidency.
Ceferin’s remarks were excerpted from the podcast and published in British media on Sunday. The interview underscores ongoing tensions within global soccer governance and highlights the growing scrutiny of leadership decisions that affect the sport’s most lucrative tournament.
Implications for world soccer
If Infantino chooses to remain in the race, the emergence of a challenger could reshape the power dynamics within FIFA. The situation also raises questions about the future of World Cup commercial arrangements and the degree of influence that private investors may have over the sport’s premier event.
Stakeholders across the football world will be watching closely as the March election approaches, awaiting further developments on whether a new candidate will step forward and how the broader football community will respond to Infantino’s leadership.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
