Irish football federation withdraws support for FIFA's Infantino

The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) announced on Thursday it has withdrawn its support for Gianni Infantino's bid to be re-elected as FIFA president. This decision rescinds a letter of support the FAI had previously granted Infantino earlier this year for what would be his fourth and final term leading the global football governing body. The vote is scheduled for next March. In a statement, the FAI explained its decision was driven by recent events that have raised significant concerns regarding governance, transparency, and a lack of meaningful consultation within FIFA. The federation acknowledged its own recent institutional management challenges, stating it feels a special obligation to promote and defend best practices. Beyond Ireland, six other European federations, Finland, Wales, England, Sweden, Serbia, and the Netherlands, have also withdrawn their support for Infantino. Additionally, UEFA, the AFC, and CONCACAF have strongly criticized the FIFA president, particularly over a failed attempt to incorporate private investment into FIFA competitions, including the World Cup. Infantino, however, has retained support from the African and South American confederations. The FAI has written to FIFA to formally explain the reasons behind its change of stance, while expressing gratitude for FIFA's support of Irish football.