Embattled FIFA President Gianni Infantino Confirms Plans to Run for Re-election Amid Mounting Scrutiny

Amid widespread criticism of his leadership and the growing threat of legal proceedings, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed his intention to run for re-election in six months’ time, football’s global governing body said.

Infantino has not changed his plans to “stand for re-election in 2027”, a FIFA spokesperson said in a statement on Sunday, hours after the FIFA chief avoided questions on his future at the Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.

“The FIFA president announced in April that he will stand for re-election in 2027. Of course, nothing has changed. Mr Infantino will be standing for re-election,” the statement said.

On Saturday, the 56-year-old stayed silent on the leadership challenge he faces as a result of his failed plan to sell rights to private investors in the World Cup, and declined to answer questions about his re-election upon arrival at the opening match of the tournament at the Arena Katowice.

“There will be a lot to say, but there will be a right place and a right time to say this. It’s not today, it’s not here, but here and today, we are enjoying football,” Infantino told British broadcaster Sky News outside the stadium.

The Swiss-Italian has been the most powerful man in world football over the past 10 years, but has increasingly lost support from regional football confederations and national associations due to his controversial plans and close ties with figures like United States President Donald Trump.

Last month, UEFA asked a federal court in the US for permission to obtain testimony and documents from FIFA entities in Florida for use in a planned criminal complaint in Switzerland against Infantino. In response, FIFA accused UEFA of a “smear campaign” and hit back by asking US judges for permission to contest the UEFA requests.

The polls to elect FIFA’s next president will be held at the global governing body’s next congress, scheduled for March 18, 2027 in Rabat, Morocco.