African federations divided over Infantino

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing mounting pressure after UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and CONCACAF began discussing a possible vote of no confidence aimed at forcing him out of office, according to senior figures familiar with the talks.

The move follows growing anger over Infantino’s controversial proposal to sell private investors a minority stake in a new FIFA commercial entity that would control rights linked to the World Cup.

The three confederations have strongly criticised FIFA’s handling of the proposal, citing concerns over transparency, consultation and governance.

One person familiar with the discussions told Reuters that Infantino now faces a choice between stepping aside before the March 2027 presidential election or confronting a potential no-confidence challenge.

FIFA’s statutes do not specifically provide for a no-confidence vote against a sitting president.

However, the FIFA Council can call an Extraordinary Congress, while one must be convened if at least one-fifth of FIFA’s 211 member associations submit a written request specifying the agenda.

Any attending association would have one vote at such a congress.

FIFA said it would not support or facilitate any process relating to the presidential election that does not comply with its statutes, democratic procedures and governance framework.

UEFA declined to comment directly on the possibility of a no-confidence vote but repeated its call for a “thorough and fundamental” review of FIFA leadership and governance, saying no option should be excluded.

CONCACAF referred to an earlier statement with UEFA and AFC accusing FIFA’s leadership of a fundamental breach of trust.

Infantino, who intends to seek another term in March 2027, continues to enjoy significant support, particularly from Africa.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe has said Infantino retains the continent’s backing and that FIFA members should decide his future through the election process.

Six Arab football associations, including Qatar and 2030 World Cup co-hosts Morocco, also recently expressed support for Infantino.

The dispute intensified after FIFA abandoned its proposal to sell a minority stake in a commercial entity holding World Cup rights.

Under the plan, national associations could have received up to $20 million in one-off funding for infrastructure, coaching, national teams, competitions, grassroots football and women’s football.

The controversy has also triggered internal tensions.

FIFA Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour left the organisation after criticising the investment proposal, while FIFA Vice President Sandor Csanyi subsequently withdrew his support for Infantino, describing Lamour’s departure as the “final straw.”

Infantino’s opponents nevertheless face major obstacles.

No challenger has publicly emerged ahead of the November 18 nomination deadline, while an unsuccessful no-confidence vote could strengthen the president by demonstrating his electoral support.

The pressure also extends to club football.

European Football Clubs, representing more than 800 clubs and chaired by Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, is reportedly aligned with efforts to push for governance changes. 

The group has warned that clubs could consider withdrawing from future FIFA Club World Cups if their concerns remain unresolved.

The growing dispute leaves FIFA facing a major leadership crisis less than a year before the 2027 presidential election, with divisions between football’s biggest power blocs showing little sign of easing.