Story perspectives

UEFA and others urge Infantino resignation before 2027 vote

8/13/2026

Summary

Infantino Faces Resignation

CAF president Patrice Motsepe said Infantino’s future must be decided in the March 2027 election and that CAF backs him, saying the stake-sale plan breaches no rules.
UEFA, AFC and CONCACAF issued a letter accusing Infantino of deception and urging his resignation before the March 2027 vote.
The Irish FA withdrew support over governance concerns, while the English FA, Welsh FA and Arab federations—including Qatar, Morocco and Egypt—back Infantino.

Summary

Infantino Deadline

Potential challengers must submit their candidacy by November 18.
A simple majority of 106 votes out of 211 member associations is needed to win if two candidates run.
Formal African support this week includes statements from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger and backing from Benin president Mathurin de Chacus and Burundi president Alexandre Muyenge, while several African federation presidents privately expressed surprise at the backlash against Infantino.

History

Historical Context

In February 2016 Gianni Infantino was elected FIFA president after a reform drive. He then doubled FIFA’s revenues, projected at $14 billion for the 2027-2030 cycle, expanded the Club World Cup to 32 teams and grew the Women’s tournament, while facing legal challenges from former UEFA chief Michel Platini. The March 2027 presidential election now pits opponents against African-aligned supporters, reviving governance concerns.

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Infantino Faces Resignation

CAF president Patrice Motsepe said Infantino’s future must be decided in the March 2027 election and that CAF backs him, saying the stake-sale plan breaches no rules.
UEFA, AFC and CONCACAF issued a letter accusing Infantino of deception and urging his resignation before the March 2027 vote.
The Irish FA withdrew support over governance concerns, while the English FA, Welsh FA and Arab federations—including Qatar, Morocco and Egypt—back Infantino.

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