From untouchable to repudiated: Can Gianni Infantino hold onto FIFA leadership?

Gianni Infantino, FIFA's president for the past decade, has long pursued polarizing projects, but a recent attempt to open the organization to private investment has drawn significant criticism. The plan, which was ultimately abandoned, has put the 56-year-old Italian-Swiss leader in the crosshairs of UEFA and CONCACAF.

“

the best World Cup in history

UEFA has labeled the project "shabby," while CONCACAF views it as a reflection of leadership that no longer prioritizes football. Despite Infantino backtracking on the proposal, his detractors have intensified their pressure. On Monday, the Welsh and Swedish football federations declared they would not back Infantino in the upcoming FIFA presidential election, scheduled for March in Morocco. Infantino is currently the sole candidate.

These stances are a stark contrast to the situation just weeks ago, following what Infantino himself called "the best World Cup in history." That tournament seemed to solidify his control over global football, with his stated ambition to "liberate its commercial potential." Infantino, who arrived at FIFA in 2016, quickly consolidated power, securing uncontested re-elections in 2019 and 2023.

“

liberate its commercial potential

His stated goals were to "restore FIFA's image" and "make football truly global," positioning himself as a guarantor of integrity and equal opportunity in the world's most popular sport. He initially gained prominence by distancing himself from the scandals that led to the downfall of his predecessor, Sepp Blatter, and Michel Platini. Despite his legal background and lack of prior sporting experience, he rose to lead the Zurich-based organization.

“

restore FIFA's image

Infantino has transitioned from operating in the background to embracing the spotlight, sometimes to an extravagant degree. He addressed human rights concerns before the 2022 Qatar World Cup by referencing his own childhood experiences of discrimination. He also drew inspiration from Rwanda's post-genocide recovery during his 2016 FIFA election campaign. In December, he established a FIFA Peace Prize, awarding it to Donald Trump, a move criticized for its association with the former U.S. president, particularly after FIFA rescinded a suspension for player Folarin Balogun during the 2026 World Cup, a decision Trump claimed to have influenced.

“

make football truly global