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FIFA members sharply divided over Infantino's re-election prospects

Support for Gianni Infantino has fallen to roughly 73 votes, with 124 members opposing him and 13 undecided as the March election draws near.

Mid-July analyses painted Gianni Infantino as the clear favorite for a fourth FIFA presidency, but a failed plan to privatise World Cup stakes has sparked widespread dissent. One outlet map now records about 73 votes in his favour, 124 against and 13 undecided among the 210 members. UEFA, CONCACAF and the AFC issued a joint letter alleging deception, yet nations such as Bhutan, the Philippines, the UAE and Mexico have publicly endorsed Infantino.

Africa and South America continue to back him, citing investment from the FIFA Forward programme. An emergency FIFA Council meeting could be called if 19 of its 37 members demand it, though the council’s composition makes that unlikely. No challenger has yet declared candidacy, but the deadline to announce runs until November, with CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani frequently mentioned as a possible opponent.

Why it matters

The split could determine FIFA's leadership and the direction of global football governance.

In this story

FIFA electionInfantinoregional splitUEFA letterAFCCONCACAFvote tallyFIFA Forward