European, Asian and North‑American soccer governing bodies are in talks about moving a vote of no confidence to oust FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The discussion follows Infantino’s proposal to sell a minority stake in a new FIFA commercial entity to private investors, a plan that has drawn sharp criticism for its lack of transparency and consultation.
Confederations weighing the move
Senior sources told Reuters that UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and CONCACAF are considering the vote. Reuters could find no prior instance in FIFA’s 122‑year history of a Congress holding a no‑confidence vote against a sitting president.
One source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “There is no way out. Either he goes the peaceful way and decides not to stand in March or he goes the hard way.” Under FIFA statutes, an Extraordinary Congress can be called at any time, and must be convened within three months if at least one‑fifth of the 211 member associations submit a written request.
Infantino’s position and support
Infantino has indicated he will seek reelection at the March 2027 FIFA Congress and still enjoys backing from many member associations, notably Africa’s Confederation of African Football (CAF). Six Arab associations, including Qatar and co‑host Morocco for the 2030 World Cup, publicly reaffirmed support after a crisis meeting in Morocco.
Nevertheless, a senior figure warned that an unsuccessful no‑confidence challenge could actually strengthen Infantino’s position by demonstrating continued electoral support.
Background on the investment proposal
The abandoned plan would have created a new commercial entity to control World Cup rights, offering member associations up to $20 million in one‑off capital for infrastructure, coaching, national teams, competitions, grassroots football and the women’s game. FIFA expects revenue for the 2023‑2026 cycle to exceed $15 billion, largely driven by the 2026 World Cup.
Critics, including former FIFA chief operating officer Kevin Lamour, argued the proposal lacked transparency. Lamour’s recent departure, which he described as being “deceived” over the project, was called the “final straw” by FIFA Vice President Sandor Csanyi, who withdrew his support for Infantino.
Club and sponsor reactions
European Football Clubs (EFC), representing more than 800 clubs and chaired by Paris Saint‑Germain president Nasser Al‑Khelaifi, has warned it could refuse to participate in future men’s and women’s Club World Cups unless governance concerns are addressed. While no FIFA sponsor has publicly criticized Infantino, former IOC marketing chief Michael Payne noted that even a narrow electoral win would not resolve the deep divisions among football’s superpowers.
Outlook
No challenger has formally entered the race ahead of the November 18 nomination deadline, and Infantino retains significant backing. CAF President Patrice Motsepe affirmed that Africa continues to support Infantino and that the president’s future should be decided by FIFA members at the election.
As the debate continues, the three confederations remain divided over whether a no‑confidence vote is the appropriate path to address what they describe as a fundamental breach of trust by FIFA’s leadership.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
