The French Football Federation (FFF) has decided to discontinue its support for Gianni Infantino’s re-election as president of FIFA. This notable shift was announced by FFF President Philippe Diallo on Thursday, citing a breakdown of trust in the governing body of world football. Diallo indicated that this decision was made unanimously by the FFF’s executive committee and reflected growing concerns regarding Infantino’s leadership.

Reasons Behind Withdrawal

Diallo expressed that the trust originally placed in Infantino had eroded, stating, “The way in which we envisage the running of world football no longer corresponds with the way it is being conducted.” The criticism towards Infantino has intensified following the abandonment of a controversial proposal aimed at selling a twenty per cent stake in FIFA competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors. This proposal was opposed by regional football confederations and eventually collapsed in July, prompting further scrutiny of FIFA’s governance.

Initially, the FFF had expressed support for Infantino’s candidacy at the end of June 2026 when he was the sole candidate. However, Diallo pointed out that the situation has significantly altered since then, leading to a re-evaluation of their stance. He remarked, “The conditions for our support for his candidacy were no longer there.” The lack of proper consultation regarding the proposed stake sale has raised critical questions about the governance structure within FIFA.

Following FFF’s decision, several European football federations, including those from England and Italy, have also retracted their support for Infantino. Key organisations such as UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation, and North America’s CONCACAF are now advocating for leadership changes within FIFA, seeking an alternative candidate ahead of the upcoming election.

Future Prospects In FIFA Elections

Diallo highlighted that France’s decision is part of a wider movement within UEFA and among other football organisations, aimed at reforming FIFA’s governance. He emphasised the necessity for proactive discussions around governance reform and identifying a candidate capable of mounting a serious challenge against Infantino. Diallo stated that while criticism is valid, it must be accompanied by constructive proposals for meaningful change.

He further asserted that UEFA must establish a clear platform for the upcoming FIFA leadership cycle and prepare to nominate a viable candidate for the election. “We will need to be ready by then to put forward a candidacy capable of winning the FIFA presidency,” he noted, underlining the importance of strategic planning for the future.

Despite facing opposition, Infantino retains support from both South America’s CONMEBOL and Africa’s CAF. The election for FIFA president is scheduled to take place in Rabat on March 18, 2027. As the election approaches, the deadline for candidates to declare their intention to run is set for November 18, 2026, intensifying the ongoing discussions surrounding FIFA’s leadership and direction.

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