Arab nations rally behind Infantino, leaving Uefa isolated in bid to oust Fifa president

The Union of Arab Football Associations (UAFA) has solidified its support for Fifa president Gianni Infantino ahead of the March 2027 election, bolstering his chances of re-election. This development comes at a crucial time as a coalition of Europe, North America, the Caribbean, and Asia has been actively campaigning for Infantino's ouster due to his controversial plans to sell minority stakes in Fifa's tournament business.

UAFA's endorsement effectively eliminates 12 key Asian members, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, from joining the opposition bloc, raising concerns about potential fissures within the coalition. The Union, headquartered in Riyadh, consists of 12 Asian nations and 10 African countries, led by Saudi Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal.

Infantino's ties to the Arab world, bolstered by Fifa's collaborative efforts with Qatar, Morocco, and Saudi Arabia on World Cup hosting rights, have cultivated a significant power base. Despite securing support from other confederations like Caf, Conmebol, and OFC, the European Union of Football Associations (Uefa) remains the sole continental body united in its opposition to Infantino's continued tenure.

No rival candidate has emerged to challenge Infantino, with the declaration deadline for potential candidates approaching in mid-November. The president's regime has faced criticism from Europe's top football leagues and global player union Fifpro over his unilateral decision-making regarding World Cup and Club World Cup expansions, as well as the overall calendar.

In an effort to address concerns, Infantino recently promised an external review of Fifa's governance to quell ongoing dissent.