The Italian football federation has joined other nations in withdrawing its backing for FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The FIGC stated it will no longer support Infantino’s reelection bid in March due to recent FIFA governance and international competition development initiatives. Infantino faced criticism for considering selling shares of the World Cup to private equity investors, leading to accusations of deception from three continental confederations and a boycott threat from UEFA.
FIGC President Giovanni Malagò emphasized the importance of promoting a soccer model based on merit, solidarity, sustainability, and fan engagement. He highlighted the significance of dialogue, listening, and shared responsibility in soccer’s growth and innovation while upholding its core principles.
England, Wales, and Ireland’s football federations had already withdrawn their support for Infantino earlier in the month. Norway and five other Nordic countries expressed a lack of confidence in Infantino’s leadership. Despite these challenges, Infantino was expected to be reelected unopposed in Morocco next year, with the deadline for challengers to nominate set for November 18.
While some FIFA member federations continue to support Infantino, UEFA is likely to retract its boycott threat following assurances that the controversial World Cup sell-off plan will not be revived. This decision will enable European teams to participate in the upcoming FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup without disruption. The tournament, scheduled to start on September 5 in Poland, includes France, Spain, England, Italy, Portugal, and host Poland.
Infantino faced global backlash over his proposed $20 billion spinoff company controlling FIFA commercial rights, leading to its swift abandonment. Following UEFA’s expression of no confidence in Infantino’s leadership, efforts to impede his reelection in March have been signaled.
