UEFA chief Ceferin rules out FIFA bid, but warns Infantino: ‘Quit or face rival’

UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin has dismissed his intention to challenge FIFA president Gianni Infantino for the FIFA presidency, but has issued a stern warning to Infantino, stating that he must either step down or face a rival in next year's election. The pressure on Infantino has risen following his abandoned proposal to sell a stake in FIFA's commercial and ticketing rights to private equity investors, which faced strong opposition from UEFA and other continental confederations.

Ceferin, who is widely considered a potential challenger to Infantino, clarified that he has no interest in the FIFA presidency, stating that he loves UEFA and wants to enjoy life in his current role. However, he believes Infantino will face an opponent if he proceeds with the elections scheduled for March. Ceferin cautioned that Infantino may lack the necessary support, including that of fans, players, and ex-players, leading to an opponent's emergence.

The controversy over the proposed investment deal has further fueled Ceferin's opposition to Infantino. He dismissed the plan as worse than the Super League project and emphasized that football should not be sold off. Ceferin also criticized FIFA for not consulting UEFA before unveiling the plan, highlighting the lack of communication between the two governing bodies.