The Football Association of Wales (FAW) has publicly withdrawn its backing for Gianni Infantino’s bid to remain as FIFA president for the 2027-2031 term, marking the first such move by any national association.
In a strongly worded statement, the FAW said it had lost confidence in the long-serving president following recent controversies, most notably his now-scrapped proposal to sell stakes in FIFA competitions to private investment firms.
Wales confirms its withdrawal to not support Infantino for re-election as FIFA president
The plan triggered global backlash, with UEFA threatening to boycott FIFA events, including the World Cup, and Concacaf issuing critical statements. The FAW, in a statement, said.
“The recent failures in good governance, processes, leadership, values, stakeholder management, communications and sound judgement have led us to a position where Mr Infantino has lost the confidence of the FAW to remain at the helm of world football.”
The statement further read that keeping football and its interests first should be the main priority, and failing that is not acceptable. Infantino, who has led FIFA since 2016, faces the prospect of a contested election as dissatisfaction grows over aspects of his leadership.
Wales’ decision could encourage other federations to reassess their positions ahead of the vote. Meanwhile, FIFA has not yet issued a response to the FAW’s announcement while the president continues to be in the limelight.
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