Football Association should show moral backbone

The Finnish Football Association's decision to back Gianni Infantino's re-election as FIFA president is met with strong criticism. The author argues that this support, made by the association's board in June, is deeply problematic given Infantino's perceived association with corruption, undemocratic leadership, and disregard for human rights violations.

Ari Lahti, the president of Palloliitto, reportedly justified the support by citing Infantino's management of FIFA's finances as transparent and well-handled. Lahti also mentioned the potential for a Swedish official to join FIFA's leadership, which he deemed beneficial for Finland's interests. However, the author dismisses these justifications, viewing Infantino as a symbol of problematic leadership.

The article expresses disbelief at the unanimous decision within Palloliitto, calling it "appalling" and suggesting that those involved should resign. It laments a perceived lack of strong moral backbone in Finnish sports leadership, contrasting it with the passion of football fans. The author poses a rhetorical question about what Finnish football would truly lose by demanding a change in FIFA's leadership, urging Palloliitto to show "moral backbone" and advocate for new leadership both for FIFA and its supporters.