FIFA President Gianni Infantino is set to run for re-election, as announced by the global soccer governing body on Sunday. Infantino has come under scrutiny for his unsuccessful attempt to sell shares in the World Cup, prompting calls for his resignation. Despite mounting pressure for him to step down, FIFA confirmed that Infantino will vie for a final term extending until 2031 in the upcoming election scheduled for 2027.
UEFA, the governing body of European soccer, has been at the forefront of demands for Infantino’s ouster, citing a loss of confidence in his leadership. Several national associations, including the English FA, have withdrawn their backing for Infantino’s re-election, with UEFA even threatening to boycott FIFA events like the World Cup.
Infantino avoided commenting on his future during the opening of the Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland on Saturday. FIFA expressed regret for the missteps in its controversial plan to commercialize World Cup profits and pledged to prevent similar blunders in the future. However, these gestures have not alleviated the mounting pressure on Infantino.
The deadline for candidates to enter the upcoming presidential race is November 18, marking four months before the election. Infantino has yet to address the criticism directly, stating that there will be an appropriate time and place for such discussions while focusing on enjoying football in the present.