Infantino claims 211 votes after Asian confederation shifts support

Gianni Infantino has dismissed speculation regarding his potential resignation from the FIFA presidency, citing widespread support from the global football community.

The FIFA chief made the comments during a BBC interview, where he laughed when asked if he had considered stepping down. He stated that 211 member associations from around the world elected him, indicating that his position remains secure despite recent internal conflicts.

Infantino’s political standing improved on Friday when Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, president of the Asian Football Confederation, endorsed him for a fourth term. Sheikh Salman declared that the Asian region was united behind the current president. This endorsement followed a similar show of support from African nations in Cape Verde, where Infantino recently traveled.

The recent shift in support has isolated European football bodies. The Asian confederation had previously joined UEFA and CONCACAF in criticizing the FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal. That failed plan sought private investment for a new entity to control commercial rights for major competitions. Infantino abandoned the scheme and faced calls to resign approximately three months ago.

Infantino acknowledged the disagreement but urged the organization to move forward. He apologized for the handling of the FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal at a FIFA Council meeting in Zurich last week. However, that gesture did not change the stance of European associations, including those representing Germany and England. He noted that while views differ, member associations will ultimately decide who leads the organization.

The Swiss-Italian administrator is seeking a fourth term that would extend his tenure until 2031. Nominations for the presidency are due by November 18. No viable alternative candidate has emerged to challenge Infantino’s lead, a factor he believes strengthens his hand ahead of the vote.