Pressure grows on Gianni Infantino as FIFA opponents threaten non-cooperation

Pressure is increasing on FIFA president Gianni Infantino as several football organisations threaten to reduce cooperation with world football’s governing body unless he steps down.

However, Infantino has not resigned and remains FIFA president. The current dispute is focused on growing opposition to his leadership and controversial plans involving FIFA’s commercial future.

Senior UEFA sources have said some opponents are considering refusing to participate in FIFA meetings while Infantino remains in charge, with one figure saying there is “no going back” on their position.

The disagreement follows Infantino’s proposal to create a new commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which would allow private investors to purchase minority stakes linked to FIFA competitions.

FIFA said the plan would involve “minority, non-controlling investments” from outside partners, but the proposal has raised concerns among some football authorities over transparency and control of major competitions.

UEFA has already warned it is considering possible legal action, arbitration or regulatory complaints over the plans.

Several football associations have also withdrawn support for Infantino’s possible fourth term as FIFA president. Wales has publicly ended its backing, while England’s Football Association is expected to follow.

Infantino, who has led FIFA since 2016, is still expected to stand for re-election in March. To win another term, he would need support from at least 106 of FIFA’s 211 member associations.

Support for Infantino remains divided across world football. UEFA, which represents 55 votes, has been among the strongest critics, while other confederations including parts of Africa and Asia continue to support his leadership.

A FIFA Council emergency meeting could potentially be called to discuss the situation if enough members request one. The council has 37 members, and at least 19 would be required to trigger such a meeting.

For now, Infantino remains in his role, but the growing opposition represents one of the biggest challenges to his FIFA presidency since taking office.