September 11 – The French Football Federation (FFF) has officially withdrawn its support for FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s bid for another term, following his controversial plan to sell all FIFA World Cup and event organizing rights.
The FFF said the executive committee’s decision was unanimous and does not hold back the reasoning. “Although the FIFA president, who was then the only candidate for his own succession, had initially been supported, the conditions for that support are no longer met,” he said, pointing to events “in direct conflict with the fundamental principles of good governance and the values of football” since he first endorsed him on June 29.
FIFA has a significant presence in Paris from where it carries out its controversial liaison activities with member associations.
At the center is Infantino’s plan to sell World Cup stakes to private equity for $4.2 billion. FIFA withdrew the proposal on August 1, days after it was made public, following strong global backlash. But the French do not treat it as the end.
“The issue of FIFA governance cannot be considered resolved,” the FFF insisted, saying Infantino’s latest actions “have seriously damaged the image and unity of football.”
France joins a growing revolt. UEFA has led the charge, saying it has lost confidence in Infantino and previously threatened to boycott FIFA tournaments, and several associations – including the home nations of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland who make up 50% of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) – have already received their support.
FIFA confirmed on Sunday that Infantino intends to stand again in March for a final term until 2031.
The FFF went beyond a simple withdrawal, calling for a far-reaching review of FIFA’s governance and launching consultations with French and international figures. The aim, he said, is to “restore trust, improve transparency and ensure the independence and exemplary conduct of world football’s governing body”.
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