FIFA president Gianni Infantino intends to run for re-election in 2027, according to a confirmation from world football’s governing body, despite facing sustained pressure and widespread criticism from European leadership. The election is scheduled to take place next February in Marrakesh, Morocco, with potential candidates required to submit their applications by November 18.
Re-Election Plans Confirmed for Marrakesh Congress
FIFA confirmed that Gianni Infantino will seek another term at the helm of the organization. A FIFA spokesperson stated that the president announced his intention to run for re-election in April, noting that nothing has changed regarding those plans. If re-elected at the congress in Marrakesh, Infantino would extend his tenure through 2031.
Infantino first assumed the presidency over a decade ago. To date, no formal challengers have emerged to contest the upcoming ballot, though candidate applications close in mid-November.
Clashes with UEFA and Investor Backlash
The announcement follows a turbulent period under heavy public and institutional scrutiny. The European continental body, UEFA, has openly called for Infantino’s resignation amid friction over governance decisions. Opposition intensified after Infantino floated a proposal following the previous World Cup to sell future tournaments to external investors. As domestic associations and European leadership mounted objections, the 56-year-old official ultimately dropped the project.
UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin has frequently criticized Infantino’s policy directions, and European federations continue to evaluate potential alternative candidates ahead of the November deadline.
Apology Issued Over British Supporter Comments
Beyond administrative battles, Infantino faced backlash from fan groups following remarks made at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland. Speaking about the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Infantino noted it was “really special” that no British nationals were arrested during the tournament.
The Football Supporters’ Association sharply criticized the comments, telling the governing body chief to concentrate on affordable ticketing for the upcoming 2026 World Cup rather than making light of supporters. In a subsequent interview with Sky News, Infantino apologized to fans in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and England, explaining his remarks were intended as light-hearted observations about a peaceful tournament rather than an attack on supporters.
Defense of the FIFA Peace Prize
Acknowledging strong public reactions to the honor, Infantino defended the choice by stating objectively that Trump was instrumental in resolving conflicts and saving thousands of lives.
As the election cycle proceeds toward the February vote in Morocco, member associations face a mid-November cutoff to present challengers against the incumbent administration.
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