Spiegel Sport18 minutes agoSports1 min readGermanyView original

French Football Federation withdraws support for FIFA President Infantino

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The French Football Federation (FFF) is withdrawing its support for Fifa President Gianni Infantino for the upcoming re-election.
The reason is the failed plan to sell WM shares to investors.
Other European associations are also distancing themselves.

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Why It Matters

Infantino came under pressure from the failed plan to sell 20 percent of FIFA competitions to private investors. This led to widespread resistance, particularly from UEFA.

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The French Football Federation (FFF) is withdrawing its support for the re-election of Gianni Infantino as Fifa president next year. This was announced by FFF President Philippe Diallo.

Infantino, who is aiming for another term in office, has been exposed to some harsh criticism since July. The reason is his failed proposal to sell a 20 percent stake in FIFA competitions - including the World Cup - to private investors. This plan, criticized as selling out football, was abandoned due to widespread opposition from regional football confederations, particularly European UEFA.

Since the planned sale of World Cup shares failed, several European associations, including the English and Italian, have withdrawn their support. Now France has followed suit. This is particularly relevant with a view to next March. Then the next presidential election will take place in Rabat. Despite all the criticism, Infantino wants to be re-elected there.

UEFA is also preparing a criminal complaint in Switzerland against Infantino. UEFA's first goal is to force Infantino to give up before his desired re-election. If Infantino runs, Canadian and Concacaf boss Victor Montagliani could run as Infantino's challenger. The deadline for nominations is November 18th.