FIFA crisis deepens as three federations withdraw support for Infantino

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Serbia and Sweden on Monday joined Wales in withdrawing their support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s bid for another term, dealing a fresh setback to his re-election campaign amid growing criticism of his leadership.

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The backlash follows FIFA’s abandoned proposal to sell a roughly 20 per cent stake in a new commercial entity overseeing competitions, including the FIFA World Cup, to private investors.

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The plan, which was expected to unlock up to $4.2bn, was shelved on Friday after strong opposition from stakeholders.

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In a statement, the Football Association of Serbia said it had reversed its earlier decision to back Infantino.

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“The Football Association of Serbia has withdrawn its support for Gianni Infantino for a new term as President of FIFA.

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“We remind that we provided Mr. Infantino with our support on May 25 of this year in written form, but after carefully reviewing the events that, in the recent period, have seriously damaged the image and reputation of both FIFA and its President, this is the only logical and rational decision.”

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The Swedish Football Association also announced it would no longer support the FIFA president.

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“At an extraordinary board meeting on Monday, SvFF has chosen not to support FIFA President Gianni Infantino in the upcoming re-election.

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“This is after a long-term assessment of the development within FIFA and the organization’s leadership. The decision is based on recurring shortcomings in governance, transparency and management, which means that trust in Gianni Infantino’s leadership no longer exists.”

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Earlier on Monday, Wales became the first national football association to formally withdraw its endorsement of Infantino.

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England’s Football Association is also expected to follow suit, according to Reuters.

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The withdrawals mark a significant escalation in opposition to Infantino as questions continue to be raised over FIFA’s governance and leadership following the collapse of its proposed commercial investment plan.

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