'Open warfare' could ensue as FIFA backs Infantino

The declaration of full support by FIFA for its under-fire president Gianni Infantino may lead to open warfare in world football politics. After a week of pressure for him to resign due to his plan to sell stakes in a company managing World Cup and FIFA tournaments to private investors, the crisis meeting in Morocco on Wednesday resulted in the executives backing him.

This decision came despite three continental confederations rejecting the private investor plan last week, with UEFA threatening to boycott all FIFA competitions unless the proposal was scrapped. Even after the plan was withdrawn, UEFA stated they had lost confidence in Infantino's leadership, and several European nations, including England and Wales, have since withdrawn their support for his re-election next year.

The Football Association of Ireland is yet to confirm its intentions, but the Professional Footballers Association of Ireland expects them to follow England and Wales. FIFA acknowledged mistakes in developing the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) company plans, particularly the sale of a 20% stake to private investors. They promised a review, stating everything was done in compliance with FIFA's regulatory framework.

However, their decision to stand by Infantino has sparked anger among national associations, with some threatening a 'governance boycott' if he doesn't face an extraordinary general meeting request or refuses to hold it.