FIFA Crisis: Why Europe Turns Its Back on Infantino?

Gianni Infantino faces a political crisis within FIFA ahead of the March 2027 presidential election. The Scottish Football Association confirmed that it will not support his reelection. England, Ireland and Wales had already withdrawn their backing.

The European decision comes after strong questions about transparency, leadership and a private investment project related to FIFA competitions. Infantino remains the only announced candidate. However, he needs a majority among the 211 member associations.

What Triggered the Rupture with Europe?

The crisis began after a project to sell a private stake in commercial assets of FIFA. The plan included rights related to the World Cup and other international competitions. Several federations felt the project was pushed through without sufficient consultation. UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and the Confederation of North America, Central America and the Caribbean (CONCACAF) published a joint letter.

The organizations stated that soccer «does not belong to any individual.» They also accused leadership of breaking institutional trust. The Scottish Football Association aligned with UEFA. Its executive director, Ian Maxwell, confirmed the decision to the BBC. Maxwell spoke of a lack of transparency and dialogue with national associations. He also said that governance must change. The alliance is significant because it represents regions with enormous sports influence. It also shows an unusually coordinated opposition.

Which Federations Withdrew Their Support?

The English Football Association was one of the first to withdraw its backing. The Irish Football Association also canceled a previous letter of support. Wales followed the same line. Scotland finally confirmed it will not vote for Infantino. These decisions do not mean that all European federations will vote the same. Each association retains its independent vote during Congress.

UEFA groups 55 national associations. The stance of its leadership may have influence, but does not legally bind each federation. The African Football Confederation (CAF) took a different position. Its president, Patrice Motsepe, said the future must be decided in the election.

Motsepe confirmed that CAF maintains support for Infantino. He also called for respecting the electoral process and the vote of the 211 associations. Six Arab federations also expressed support. Among them are Qatar and Morocco, one of the organizers of the 2030 World Cup. Therefore, the scenario is not an automatic defeat. Infantino still retains allies in Africa, Asia and the Arab world.

How Does FIFA’s Election Work?