Infantino claims 211 votes as Asian bloc backs fourth term

The internal division within FIFA over the handling of commercial rights has narrowed, with the president securing formal endorsements from two major continental bodies just weeks before the nomination deadline. These recent developments have strengthened Gianni Infantino's position ahead of a fourth term that would extend his tenure until 2031.

Infantino addressed the stability of his leadership during an interview with the BBC, where he laughed when asked if he had considered resigning. He cited the backing of 211 member associations from across the globe as the primary reason for his confidence. He argued that while an organization of that size will always contain differing viewpoints, a democratic process requires respecting the preference of the vast majority of nations.

The shift in momentum began on Friday when Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, the president of the Asian Football Confederation, announced that the Asian bloc was united behind Infantino. The AFC had previously joined UEFA and CONCACAF in criticizing the FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal, a failed initiative that sought private investment for a new entity controlling major competition rights. Infantino abandoned that plan after facing calls to step down approximately three months ago.

Infantino stated that he had recently returned from Tokyo, where the AFC voted to support him, and from Cape Verde, where African nations expressed similar backing. He noted that he is currently engaging with associations globally to secure further support. This consolidation of the Asian and African votes has left UEFA, the European governing body, in a more isolated position, particularly as CONCACAF remains divided on the issue.

The lack of a clear alternative candidate has further complicated the challenges facing Infantino's critics. Although he apologized for the management of the FFE proposal during a FIFA Council meeting in Zurich last week, that gesture did not appease football associations in Germany and England. The 56-year-old Swiss-Italian administrator maintained a conciliatory tone, stating that it is acceptable to disagree, provided that the organization can eventually move forward together.

He emphasized that the final decision rests with the member associations, who will determine both the next president and the operational direction of FIFA. Potential candidates must submit their nominations by November 18 to enter the race.