UEFA boss Ceferin rules out FIFA presidency run

UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin expressed his disinterest in replacing FIFA president Gianni Infantino, while warning that Infantino must resign or face a leadership challenge. Infantino has faced mounting pressure to step down due to his abandoned plan to secure private investment in FIFA tournaments, including the World Cup. UEFA, which governs European football, has threatened a boycott of FIFA events, with several continental and national federations withdrawing their support for Infantino.

However, Ceferin did not consider himself a suitable candidate to replace Infantino, stating he loves UEFA and believes it's time to enjoy life. Infantino, a former UEFA secretary general, had the support of European nations when he succeeded Sepp Blatter in 2016. However, Ceferin claims the current situation is different, with Infantino needing to gain support from the football community, fans, players, former players, coaches for him to run for re-election at the next FIFA Congress in Morocco.

Potential challengers for Infantino's position include CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani and AFC boss Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa. Infantino recently attended meetings with football officials in the Dominican Republic despite calls to avoid a youth tournament there. In video remarks, Infantino appeared to acknowledge the controversy, stating it's important to engage, have a dialogue, and express views and opinions.