Nations opposing, backing Infantino ahead of 2027 FIFA election

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is encountering significant opposition as the election for his final term in March 2027 approaches. A wave of European football associations have withdrawn their support, largely in response to controversy surrounding his now-shelved FIFA Forward Enterprise investment plan. This initiative aimed to attract private companies to invest in the World Cup, but it drew sharp criticism from various football authorities.

Infantino's re-election had appeared secure until the investment plan surfaced. Following the backlash, FIFA decided to halt the proposal, and Infantino issued an apology for any missteps related to the initiative. Despite this, he has since garnered the backing of FIFA's senior executives during a crisis meeting in Rabat, Morocco. However, the ultimate decision rests with FIFA's 211 member associations, each holding one vote, regardless of their size or influence.

Opposition to Infantino is primarily concentrated in Europe. Finland was among the first to retract support, followed by England, Wales, and Serbia. Other nations like Sweden, Greece, Albania, Croatia, Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway have also indicated they will not back his re-election. Jordan stands as the sole non-European country identified as publicly opposing Infantino, with its football federation led by Prince Ali bin Al Hussein, a former FIFA vice-president. Prince Ali accused FIFA's leadership of blackmail, alleging that Jordan's awaited funds for reaching the FIFA Arab Cup final were contingent on supporting Infantino.

Conversely, Infantino retains support from several associations across different confederations. Qatar, Sri Lanka, Kuwait, Lebanon, and Morocco publicly backed him after the withdrawal of the FIFA Forward Enterprise plan. The African football confederation has also endorsed him, contrasting with UEFA's public criticism. As of the report, no formal challenger has emerged, with the nomination deadline set for November 18.

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Jordan had been awaiting money for reaching the final of the FIFA Arab Cup in Qatar in December and claimed he was told that supporting Infantino would help the federation receive the funds.