UEFA seeks unity candidate to challenge Infantino

The European football governing body UEFA is actively pursuing a candidate to oppose incumbent FIFA president Gianni Infantino in the upcoming presidential election. Despite withdrawing its threat to boycott FIFA competitions, UEFA remains confident that a unity candidate can be found to challenge Infantino in the March election.

FIFA requires a candidate to secure support from 106 out of 211 member associations to win, and UEFA believes the contest could be closely contested. No challenger has been announced yet, but Concacaf president Victor Montagliani is seen as a strong potential contender. UEFA's 55 member associations have already voted to boycott FIFA competitions until the Forward Enterprise proposal is abandoned and guarantees are provided against private ownership of FIFA.

The decision by UEFA to end the boycott was formally confirmed at their executive committee meeting in Monaco, allowing the FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland to proceed as scheduled. England, France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and hosts Poland will all participate in the tournament. FIFA has welcomed UEFA's decision, stating it is pleased that all qualified teams will compete in the Under-20 Women’s World Cup and that football can unite people during difficult times.

UEFA believes that even if Infantino wins a close election, his presidency could face significant damage if support for him declines sharply and his legitimacy is questioned. FIFA nominations for the presidency must be submitted by November 18.