If Infantino goes, who might replace him as Fifa president?
Pressure is building on Fifa president Gianni Infantino but if he goes, who comes in?
As Fifa president Gianni Infantino faces mounting pressure, speculation arises regarding his potential successor. After scrapping plans to sell stakes in Fifa competitions, Infantino stands for re-election in March to secure a fourth term, requiring 106 votes from the 211 members. However, national associations, including those from England and Wales, have started withdrawing their support for his re-election.
The possibility of an emergency meeting by the Fifa Council to force Infantino's resignation cannot be ruled out. If this marks the end of his tenure, who could potentially replace him? Montagliani, president of Concacaf, who campaigns for governance reform and was heavily involved in the 2026 World Cup, is a potential contender.
Fluent in multiple languages and having campaigned on his own dime, Montagliani received strong backing during his campaign. The AFC president, Al Khalifa, has overseen significant growth within the Asian confederation and has presided over substantial changes. However, he has expressed his reluctance to run. Grafstrom, appointed Fifa secretary general in May 2024 and influential in the organization, has become a strong candidate, but his close proximity to Infantino might be seen as a drawback.
The next Fifa president will be confirmed at the organization's 77th Congress in Morocco in March, with candidates submitting their names by November 18.
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