The English Football Association has formally withdrawn its support for Gianni Infantino’s re-election as FIFA president, joining Wales in turning against the embattled Swiss-Italian following the collapse of his controversial World Cup privatisation plan.
The decision to scrap the proposed $4.2 billion sale of a 21 per cent stake in FIFA’s commercial operations to private investors failed to halt the growing backlash. UEFA has threatened legal action, saying it is “actively considering” proceedings over the “shabby, backroom deal.” The European body has also demanded FIFA preserve all documents related to the plan as potential evidence.
Wales became the first member association to formally withdraw support, stating Infantino had “lost the confidence of the FAW to remain at the helm of world football.” The FA will now write to Infantino to revoke its support.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has also condemned Infantino, calling him “the wrong man to lead football forward on the world stage.”
Despite the mounting pressure, Infantino retains some support, particularly from African and Asian associations. The next FIFA presidential election is scheduled for March, with a candidate deadline of November 18.