Infantino Claims Widespread Support for Fourth FIFA Presidential Term

Posted : 24 October 2026

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has insisted he enjoys the support of the vast majority of football’s national associations as he prepares to seek a fourth term in office. His re-election campaign received a significant boost on Friday after the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) publicly backed his candidacy, despite recent criticism of his leadership.

The 56-year-old Swiss-Italian official faced mounting pressure in recent months following a controversial proposal to introduce private investors into a commercial venture linked to FIFA competitions, including the World Cup. The plan sparked objections from senior football officials, with UEFA, the AFC and CONCACAF previously expressing concerns over how the initiative was handled.

The proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise project was eventually abandoned, and Infantino apologised for mistakes in the consultation and communication process. Nevertheless, the controversy prompted calls for greater transparency and accountability within the governing body.

Speaking to the BBC on Saturday, Infantino defended FIFA’s democratic structure and argued that differing opinions should be respected. He said the organisation’s 211 member associations each have a voice in deciding who leads world football and maintained that the views of the majority should also be acknowledged.

Infantino pointed to support from Asia and Africa as evidence of his strong position ahead of the election. The AFC’s endorsement in Tokyo followed backing from African football associations, strengthening his prospects as he seeks another mandate.

The Asian confederation’s decision represents a notable change after it previously joined UEFA and CONCACAF in criticising the proposed private investment scheme. AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa said the region was ready to move forward in unity and support Infantino’s leadership.

However, opposition to the FIFA president remains, particularly in Europe. UEFA has continued to demand answers about the abandoned commercial venture and other governance issues, calling for greater transparency from FIFA’s leadership.

With nominations for the presidential election due by November 18, no major challenger has emerged to mount a serious campaign against Infantino. The election is scheduled for March 2027, when member associations will decide whether he remains at the helm of world football.

Infantino has maintained that the final decision belongs to FIFA’s member associations and said he respects differing views across the sport. His growing support from Asia and Africa puts him in a strong position, although criticism of his leadership and demands for greater accountability remain unresolved.

Infantino Claims Widespread Support for Fourth FIFA Presidential Term

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