Conmebol President Backs Infantino, Cites 'Leader of Football's Transformation'

Alejandro Domínguez, president of the South American Football Confederation (Conmebol), has publicly backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino, describing him as the "leader of football's transformation." Domínguez's statement came during a meeting in Cali, Colombia, where he also met with local officials and attended the inauguration of Colombia's president.

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We are working firmly for the health of football, for its stability and for everything that is being transformed in football, and, to be honest, there is a leader for that transformation.

Domínguez specifically highlighted the success of the 48-team World Cup format, stating it exceeded his expectations. "I believe that great work cannot be ignored," he said, referring to Infantino's leadership. He also addressed Infantino's recent proposal to sell a stake in a new commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which faced significant opposition from confederations like UEFA. Infantino ultimately withdrew the proposal after listening to feedback.

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The 48-team World Cup has been very successful, much more than I expected. And the name is none other than that of President Infantino.

Despite the withdrawal, some confederations have expressed reservations about Infantino's continued leadership. However, others, including the African Football Confederation (CAF), the Argentine Football Association, and the Mexican Football Federation, have reaffirmed their support. FIFA elections are scheduled for March 18, 2027, with Infantino currently being the only declared candidate.

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I believe that great work cannot be ignored, we already took a stance regarding the withdrawal of the proposal and we must continue working for football with dialogue, even if we do not always agree.