The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced Wednesday that it has withdrawn its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s expected bid for another term in office next March.
FIGC President Giovanni Malago said the decision was made to clearly communicate the federation’s concerns about recent FIFA initiatives related to governance and the future development of international competitions. He stressed that Italian football would continue working with UEFA and other European federations to promote fairness, solidarity, sustainability and the interests of supporters.
Infantino has faced increasing criticism following the controversial FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal, which sought to sell private investors stakes in a company managing commercial rights linked to the World Cup and other FIFA tournaments. The plan was eventually abandoned after strong opposition.
Despite its withdrawal, concerns over Infantino’s leadership have continued. UEFA, the AFC and CONCACAF jointly criticized FIFA’s handling of the proposal and called for an independent investigation. Football associations from England, Wales and Ireland have also reportedly withdrawn their support.
Infantino has been FIFA president since 2016 and is reportedly preparing to seek reelection at the FIFA Congress in Morocco next March.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE