Wales First to Withdraw Support for Gianni Infantino’s FIFA Re-election Bid

Wales Pulls Back Support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino

A European country has become the first to formally withdraw its backing for Gianni Infantino as he prepares to seek another term as FIFA president next year. The move comes amid controversy surrounding FIFA’s recent plans to allow minority investments in a new subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which was intended to manage commercial rights for future tournaments.

FIFA had to abandon this proposal after strong opposition from multiple football associations worldwide. Both UEFA and the FA were united in their rejection, with all 55 European members supporting a boycott of FIFA competitions, including the men’s and women’s World Cups.

Infantino Responds to Backlash

Gianni Infantino explained that FIFA listened carefully to the concerns raised and decided not to proceed with the FFE plan. He stated the project aimed to strengthen FIFA member associations, especially in countries requiring more support. However, due to divisions created by the proposal, it was clear the idea would not serve its intended purpose.

“Having listened carefully to all the views, it has become clear that the project has created divisions of a nature that, regardless of the level of support, are no longer in the interest of the objective set out in the first place. Our purpose has always been - and will always be - to unite and improve,” Infantino said.

He added his intention to bring stakeholders together soon to focus on growing football everywhere, particularly in nations needing assistance.

Support for Infantino’s Leadership Wanes

Despite withdrawing the controversial plan, questions remain about Infantino’s leadership. He has been FIFA president since February 2016 and aims to run again in 2027. Yet UEFA, Concacaf, and the FA have called for a leadership review. On August 3, Wales became the first country to publicly withdraw support for Infantino’s re-election bid.

The Football Association of Wales (FAW) said, “We hereby confirm our withdrawal of support for the candidature of Mr Gianni Infantino for re-election as FIFA president for the 2027-2031 term. Recent failures in governance, processes, leadership, values, stakeholder management, communications, and judgment have caused us to lose confidence in him remaining at world football’s helm. Failing to prioritize football’s best interests is a failure we cannot accept.”

The FAW has reportedly sent an official letter to FIFA outlining this position.

Election Details and Other Associations’ Stances

The presidential election will occur on March 18 at the 77th FIFA Congress in Rabat, Morocco. All 211 FIFA member associations have one vote each.

Several other associations have expressed concerns or demanded change:

• UEFA declared loss of confidence in the current FIFA leadership.
• Dutch FA (KNVB): Called the process a fundamental breach of trust and no longer has confidence in Infantino.
• Norway FA: Welcomed the withdrawal but urged a shift toward transparency and away from fear-driven politics.
• German FA President Bernd Neuendorf: Accused Infantino of acting unilaterally, opaquely, and irresponsibly.

The situation reveals deep unease within world football’s governing bodies about how FIFA’s leadership handles decision-making and communication.