English FA Deals Another Blow to Infantino
The English Football Association is set to send an official letter to Gianni Infantino informing him that it is withdrawing its support for his re-election as FIFA president, marking a significant escalation in the growing crisis within world football ahead of the upcoming elections.
The decision follows the FA's endorsement of UEFA's position, stating that it has lost confidence in Infantino's leadership after the controversy surrounding a proposal to sell a stake in FIFA's commercial operations and tournament rights to an investment fund.
Why the Dispute Between Infantino and European Federations Escalated
The proposal to sell a 21% stake in FIFA's commercial operations and tournament rights for $4.2 billion to an investment fund led by Joshua Kushner sparked widespread criticism across the football community.
Although Infantino later withdrew the proposal, the controversy did not subside. Several football associations have since called for a comprehensive review of FIFA's governance to ensure greater transparency and protect the interests of its member associations.
English FA's Demands
The English FA stated that the time has come for a thorough review of FIFA's leadership to ensure that world football is governed according to the principles of good governance and transparency while safeguarding the interests of all national associations.
Other Football Associations Also Withdraw Support
The English FA is not alone in taking this stance. The Football Association of Wales has officially withdrawn its support for Infantino's re-election, while the Serbian Football Association has also confirmed it has made the same decision following recent developments.
The Serbian FA said that recent events have damaged the reputation of both FIFA and its president, making the withdrawal of support the most appropriate course of action.
UEFA Considers Legal Action
UEFA has intensified its pressure on FIFA by indicating that it is considering legal action over the now-abandoned proposal.
A law firm representing UEFA has also requested that all documents related to the project be preserved and not destroyed, a move that could pave the way for legal proceedings in the coming months.
Potential Challenger to Infantino
Amid declining international support, reports suggest that Victor Montagliani, President of CONCACAF and FIFA Vice President, is considering running against Infantino in the FIFA presidential election.
The deadline for submitting presidential candidacies is set for November 18, while the election itself is scheduled to take place in March.
The Future of the FIFA Presidential Election
Although Infantino previously claimed to have secured the backing of more than 200 national football associations, the recent decisions by several European associations indicate a significant shift in the electoral landscape, potentially making the race for the FIFA presidency more competitive than ever.
Why did the English FA withdraw its support for Infantino?
Because it lost confidence in his leadership following the controversy surrounding FIFA's proposal to sell part of its commercial rights.
Why did UEFA object to the proposal?
UEFA opposed the plan to sell a stake in FIFA's commercial operations to an investment fund, arguing that it raised serious governance and transparency concerns.
Did Infantino withdraw the proposal?
Yes. He abandoned the proposal after facing widespread opposition from football associations.
Who is the leading potential challenger to Infantino?
Victor Montagliani, President of CONCACAF and FIFA Vice President.
When will the FIFA presidential election take place?
The election is scheduled for March, with the nomination deadline set for November 18.
