Asian Football Confederation Pledges Support for Gianni Infantino's FIFA Presidency Re-election Bid

The Asian football governing body has officially declared its backing for Gianni Infantino's pursuit of re-election as FIFA president. This endorsement comes after the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) had previously voiced strong opposition to Infantino's proposals concerning the sale of commercial rights for major world tournaments.

In early July, the AFC issued a statement expressing solidarity with UEFA and CONCACAF, highlighting significant concerns over FIFA's plan to introduce private investment into its premier competitions. Following this, Infantino issued an apology for any communication and consultation process errors related to the World Cup sale plans.

On Friday, AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa confirmed the regional body's support for Infantino. Addressing Infantino directly at the AFC's extraordinary congress in Tokyo, Sheikh Salman stated, “I think that we reaffirm our full commitment, of course, to supporting you and your leadership as you seek a new mandate as a Fifa president.”

In a subsequent AFC statement, Sheikh Salman elaborated on the importance of unity: “Our greatest strength lies in our unity, and we have all seen the historic heights Asian football can achieve when we stand together. The Asian game’s remarkable journey and historic achievements are deeply rooted in the strong partnership, trust, and shared vision that we share as one united family. As we look towards a brighter and more competitive future, our solidarity remains our greatest strength. We are ready to move forward, united in support of Fifa president Gianni Infantino.”

Infantino is seeking a fourth term, with the election scheduled for March, extending his presidency until 2031. Potential candidates are required to submit their nominations by November 18.

Several key members within the AFC had already publicly announced their support for Infantino. During his address to the delegates, Infantino also expressed his support for Sheikh Salman's leadership, commending his work over the past 13 years and pledging FIFA's continued partnership.

While the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also backed Infantino's re-election, he continues to face opposition from UEFA, the European football governing body. UEFA has formally communicated with FIFA, seeking clarification on several aspects of Infantino's presidency, including the World Cup rights sale project and the FIFA Peace Prize.

FIFA's earlier revelation of plans to sell a 20% stake in a subsidiary company established to manage its competitions had drawn considerable criticism. The president of the Japan Football Association, Tsuneyasu Miyamoto, indicated on Friday that the association aimed to align with the AFC's position but had not yet finalized a decision.