The map showing world's division over Infantino
BBC Sport uses visuals to explore the support and opposition to Gianni Infantino's leadership of Fifa from its members.
As recently as mid-July, Gianni Infantino was considered a shoo-in to be re-elected as Fifa president next March. However, his position has become far less certain after weeks of controversy surrounding his plan to sell off stakes in World Cup and other competitions to private investors. The BBC Sport has now mapped the views of all 210 member associations who can vote.
While some countries have publicly stated their support or opposition, others have conveyed their stance to the BBC Sport based on statements made by their continental confederation. Infantino once appeared set to secure his fourth term, but now he may need sufficient support to stay in power. If a unity candidate challenges him, the election could become a direct battle.
A simple majority of 106 votes is required to win, or two-thirds if there are more than two candidates. Currently, 73 votes support Infantino, 124 oppose him, and 13 are undecided. However, this is a fluid situation likely to change in the upcoming months. The European Union, Uefa, North America's Concacaf, and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have united against Infantino, accusing him and Fifa of breaking their trust through deception.
While some within these confederations support Infantino, others like Bhutan, the Philippines, and the UAE are backing him. Mexico and the USA have also come out in support, but Canada has not yet declared its opposition. New Zealand recently withdrew its support. Infantino still has strong allies in Africa (Caf) and South America (Conmebol), who have benefited from investment during his tenure.
Saudi Arabia, which will hold its football leadership elections in August, could also influence regional support. Although Infantino has no intention of stepping down, the Fifa Council could force his resignation with an emergency meeting if 19 of its 37 members call for it. However, the council's makeup suggests this is unlikely.
A challenger could emerge by November, with Uefa, Concacaf, and AFC presidents seen as potential candidates. The map of votes could change significantly based on these developments.
Written by urgent.news from BBC Sport's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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