The Italian Football Federation has joined a growing number of countries in withdrawing its endorsement of FIFA President Gianni Infantino. In a statement released on Wednesday, the FIGC announced its decision not to support Infantino’s reelection bid in March, citing concerns over recent FIFA governance and international competition development initiatives.
Infantino has faced mounting pressure to resign following his failed attempt to sell shares of the World Cup to private equity investors. Three continental confederations accused him of deception, and UEFA threatened to boycott FIFA competitions. FIGC President Giovanni Malagò emphasized the federation’s commitment to working with UEFA and other European federations to uphold values such as merit, solidarity, sustainability, and fan engagement.
The football associations of England, Wales, and Ireland had previously withdrawn their backing for Infantino’s reelection bid, while Norway called for his resignation. Additionally, a joint statement from five Nordic countries expressed a lack of confidence in his leadership. Despite initial expectations of an uncontested reelection in Morocco next year, FIFA has set a deadline for potential challengers to enter the race by November 18.
While some of FIFA’s member federations continue to support Infantino, including the 2030 World Cup co-host Morocco, Qatar, and Lebanon, others like Saudi Arabia, the 2034 host, have not publicly endorsed him, despite his close ties to the kingdom.