FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed his intention to run for re-election in 2027, according to a statement from FIFA. Infantino's announcement comes amid criticism of his leadership and potential legal challenges. A FIFA spokesperson reiterated that Infantino has not changed his plans to stand for re-election, following his previous announcement in April.
Infantino, 56, faced questions about his future during the Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland but did not address the leadership challenges stemming from his controversial plan to sell rights to private investors for the World Cup. He was seen at the opening match between Poland and Argentina but remained silent on inquiries regarding his re-election.
In a statement to Sky News, Infantino emphasized the importance of enjoying football, stating, "There will be a lot to say, but there will be a right place and a right time to say this. It’s not today, it’s not here, but here and today, we are enjoying football."
Infantino has been a prominent figure in world football for the past decade, but his support has diminished among regional football confederations and national associations. Critics have raised concerns about his close ties to global leaders and his revenue-maximizing strategies, which some view as detrimental to the sport.
FIFA presidents are limited to three four-year terms, but Infantino's first term was deemed not to count towards this limit due to its interrupted nature. His bid for a fourth term has faced scrutiny from critics and rights groups, who have urged FIFA's Governance, Audit and Compliance Committee to block his re-election.
Infantino's support has particularly waned following his association with U.S. President Donald Trump and his controversial invitation to private investors to buy stakes in future World Cup profits. UEFA has also sought legal action against Infantino, requesting testimony and documents for a potential criminal complaint in Switzerland related to FIFA's plans to transfer commercial rights into a new subsidiary. In response, FIFA accused UEFA of conducting a smear campaign.
The election for FIFA's next president is scheduled for March 18, 2027, in Rabat, Morocco, with candidates required to declare their candidacy by November 18. A total of 106 votes from FIFA's 211 member nations will be needed to win the presidency.