France to bid for 2038 World Cup, backs Infantino for FIFA presidency

France is preparing to enter the race to host the 2038 FIFA World Cup, with the French Football Federation (FFF) planning a strategic alliance with current FIFA President Gianni Infantino. According to French sports publication L'Equipe, the FFF intends to publicly support Infantino's efforts to remain at the helm of world football's governing body.

This move is seen as a calculated political maneuver designed to enhance France's chances of securing the hosting rights for the 2038 tournament. By maintaining a strong relationship with FIFA's leadership, the FFF aims to navigate the complex political landscape within international football and present a favorable candidacy.

Infantino has faced considerable scrutiny during his tenure, with criticisms leveled against his management of FIFA, including decisions on World Cup expansion and calendar changes. Despite these controversies, the FFF appears to believe that aligning with the incumbent president is crucial for their hosting ambitions.

France has prior experience hosting the World Cup, having successfully organized the event in 1998, which culminated in their national team winning their first world title on home soil. The FFF's bid for 2038 signals a significant ambition to host the prestigious tournament again, potentially reigniting political rivalries within global football.