UEFA-Boss Aleksander Ceferin stated in a podcast interview that FIFA President Gianni Infantino should step down due to a lack of broad support, while confirming that he will not run as a challenger in the upcoming March 2027 FIFA presidential election. According to statements made by Ceferin on the British podcast The Rest is Politics, Infantino must recognize that he lacks the necessary backing to continue leading the international governing body.
Ceferin Rules Out Personal Candidacy Against Infantino
Aleksander Ceferin explicitly ruled out mounting a personal challenge for the FIFA presidency when his current UEFA mandate concludes. According to the 58-year-old Slovenian official, his credibility as a vocal critic of Gianni Infantino remains significantly higher by remaining outside the race rather than running as a direct opponent. Ceferin noted that he is not interested in the FIFA top post, though he anticipates a contested election if Infantino pursues another term at the FIFA Congress scheduled for March 2027.
Potential Challengers and Regional Alignments
While dismissing Paris Saint-Germain club boss Nasser Al-Khelaifi as an unlikely candidate, Ceferin pointed toward Victor Montagliani of Canada as a plausible alternative. Montagliani serves as the head of CONCACAF, overseeing football associations across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Nominations for the presidential election remain open until November 18, leaving regional federations time to organize potential opposition tickets against the incumbent leadership.
Infantino Retains Support Among Smaller Member Associations
Gianni Infantino continues to counter criticism by focusing on smaller member federations, which have benefited from financial contributions under his administration. Speaking at a youth tournament in the Dominican Republic, Infantino addressed what he described as a “gap” between the very large nations and other countries, framing his platform around global inclusivity and universal growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the next FIFA presidential election? The election is scheduled to take place during the FIFA Congress in March 2027.
- What is Aleksander Ceferin’s position on running for FIFA president? Ceferin has stated he will not run for the office, citing a desire to maintain his credibility as an independent critic of the current administration.
- Who might run against Gianni Infantino? CONCACAF-Chef Victor Montagliani has emerged as a potential challenger before the nomination deadline.
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