Fifa President Gianni Infantino, once considered a shoo-in for re-election next March, is now facing considerable opposition to his bid for a fourth term. This shift follows relentless fallout from his abandoned plan to sell stakes in the World Cup and other competitions to private investors.
The backlash intensified on Monday when European governing body Uefa, North America's Concacaf, and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) signed a joint letter. This letter accused Infantino and Fifa of breaking their trust "through deception." These regional bodies represent 136 associations combined.
While Infantino still has allies, particularly in Africa (Caf) and South America (Conmebol), the global picture is fluid. The current tally shows 73 member associations in support of Infantino, 124 in opposition, and 13 undecided. Several European countries, including England and Wales, have formally withdrawn their letters of support.
The deadline for candidates to announce their intention to stand against Infantino is November. If a unity candidate emerges, the election would become a direct battle requiring a simple majority of 106 votes to win.