UEFA seeks credible rival to unseat Infantino in FIFA election

MADRID: UEFA is determined to find a credible challenger to oppose FIFA President Gianni Infantino in next March's election, according to vice-president Laura McAllister. While Infantino remains confident of securing re-election, McAllister emphasized that the candidate should be capable of uniting FIFA's confederations and driving significant governance reform.

UEFA's goal is not to install a European figurehead, but to support a reform-oriented candidate. The vice-president affirmed that opposition to Infantino has not lost momentum, despite the president's apparent support. She acknowledged resistance to change but stressed the importance of taking steps to implement reforms legally and through a clear reform platform.

McAllister emphasized that UEFA and the confederations are united and concerted in their efforts to change FIFA's governance structure. She rejected the notion of insisting on a European challenger, instead focusing on the program of change, which she believes should include greater accountability, transparency, conflict-of-interest management, whistleblower protection, and diverse leadership.