FIFA responds to critics of Infantino, strongly defends legal framework

FIFA has issued a robust defense of its legal framework and President Gianni Infantino, directly addressing criticism from entities like UEFA. In a statement, FIFA warned that it would not tolerate any external or extralegal attempts to alter the presidency outside the mechanisms defined in its statutes.

The strong defense comes amid mounting pressure on the Swiss-Italian executive, 56, as the 2027 presidential elections approach. FIFA's spokesperson asserted that there is a "concerted and continuous effort" to weaken Infantino, emphasizing his democratic election on February 26, 2016, by the 211 member associations and his ongoing mandate.

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FIFA will not support, facilitate, or tolerate any process related to the election of the FIFA President that is inconsistent with the FIFA Statutes, democratic procedures, and the established governance framework.

"FIFA will not support, facilitate, or tolerate any process related to the election of the FIFA President that is inconsistent with the FIFA Statutes, democratic procedures, and the established governance framework," the statement highlighted. Tensions between Infantino and some confederations have escalated following details of a FIFA plan to privatize aspects of World Cup management through a new subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE).

Rejection, led by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), has intensified, questioning Infantino's leadership despite his stated commitment to the project. However, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) has defended FIFA's processes and Infantino's management, while the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has already expressed support for his 2027 candidacy. FIFA reiterated its responsibility to its 211 member associations and global football, stating it would not be distracted from its goal of strengthening the organization and making football truly global.

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The responsibility of FIFA is to its 211 member associations and to football worldwide. We will not allow anything to distract us or divert us from our goal of strengthening the organization, delivering results to our member associations, and continuing the work of making football truly global.