Infantino Claims 211 Votes as Asia Backs Fourth Term

Gianni Infantino stated that 211 member associations support his bid for a fourth term as FIFA president. He made the claim during a recent interview with the BBC, dismissing earlier questions about his potential resignation with a laugh.

The controversy began with the FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal. This plan sought private investment for a new entity to control commercial rights for major competitions. Infantino dropped the proposal after facing pressure from several confederations. Calls for him to step down peaked approximately three months ago.

The political dynamics shifted on Friday. Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, the president of the Asian Football Confederation, formally endorsed Infantino. He declared that the Asian continent was united behind the current president. This move follows earlier criticism from the AFC, UEFA, and CONCACAF regarding the FFE proposal.

The change in position has isolated European football bodies. UEFA and some associations in North and Central America remain critical of the handling of the failed initiative. No other viable candidate has emerged to challenge Infantino for the top post.

Infantino noted his recent travels to Tokyo and Cape Verde. In both regions, he reported full endorsement from local associations. He emphasized that his mandate comes from a global majority rather than a single confederation.

Nominations for the FIFA presidency are due by November 18. The successful candidate would serve a term extending until 2031. Infantino, a 56-year-old Swiss-Italian, acknowledged the ongoing disagreements among member nations.

He apologized at a FIFA Council meeting in Zurich last week for the manner in which the FFE proposal was managed. He stated that while it is acceptable to disagree, the organization must now move forward. The decision ultimately rests with the member associations on how to govern the sport.