Football president: FIFA presidency not a topic

Norwegian Football Federation president Lise Klaveness has distanced herself from speculation linking her to the FIFA presidency. While acknowledging her name has been mentioned, Klaveness stated it is "not a topic at all" and stressed the importance of focusing on substantive issues rather than personal ambitions.

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I register that my name is being mentioned. It is a registration, but not something that is a topic at all.

Klaveness's comments follow the NFF's call for current FIFA president Gianni Infantino to step down. Despite some, including former FIFA president Sepp Blatter, publicly supporting Klaveness for the role, she indicated that neither she nor the NFF are prepared for such a candidacy at this time. She emphasized a desire for any discussion to center on policy and not just individuals.

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We are also not ready for it, because we are concerned that this should be about substance and not just personality. That is important.

Experts have expressed mixed views on Klaveness's prospects. While some, like former Norwegian international Erik Thorstvedt, believe she has "no chance" of securing enough votes, others, such as Danish sports policy expert Troels Bager Thøgersen, also doubt her ability to succeed, suggesting her potential to challenge the FIFA status quo would face resistance. Conversely, Sports Illustrated has previously listed Klaveness as a top contender.

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I had gladly seen Lise as Fifa president. But that said: I think she is completely without a chance.