Infantino opponents threaten non-cooperation with FIFA unless he resigns

Officials opposed to FIFA president Gianni Infantino are contemplating non-cooperation with the governing body while he remains in office, following the BBC's report citing UEFA sources. The depth of this opposition remains undefined, although a senior figure suggested a potential refusal to attend FIFA meetings. Other sources assert that there is no turning back while Infantino stays in power.

FIFA rescinded the commercial subsidiary project, FIFA Forward Enterprise, on August 1, after receiving objections from UEFA, Concacaf, and the Asian Football Confederation. The South American body, Conmebol, sought clarification without expressing a stance. Infantino stated that all perspectives had been considered, and the project would not continue.

UEFA sent a letter warning about potential legal action, arbitration, or regulatory complaints, demanding the preservation of all related documentation. UEFA vice-president Laura McAllister criticized the governance process and expressed hope for leadership changes next year. To force Infantino's departure, two statutory routes are available: an emergency council meeting requiring approval from 19 out of 37 members, or a no-confidence motion needing the support of 43 associations.

Wales was the first nation to publicly reject Infantino's bid for a fourth term, followed by Serbia, Sweden, Finland, and the English Football Association. Morocco, Qatar, Lebanon, Kuwait, and Sri Lanka have pledged support for his re-election. The election is scheduled for March 2027, requiring 106 votes out of 211, with UEFA holding 55, Africa 54, Asia 46, Concacaf 35, Oceania 11, and Conmebol 10.