Gianni Infantino’s hopes of securing a fourth and final term as FIFA president have received a major boost after the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) endorsed his re-election bid at its Congress in Tokyo.
Gianni Infantino at the AFC Congress (Credits: BBC Sport)
AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa told delegates — with Infantino in attendance — that “we reaffirm our full commitment, of course, to supporting you as you seek a new mandate as president.” He added: “As one Asian family, we are ready to move forward, united in your support, Gianni.”
Infantino Re-Election: A Remarkable U-Turn From Asia
The endorsement marks a striking reversal. Just two months ago, Sheikh Salman signed a joint letter with the heads of UEFA and Concacaf criticising Infantino over his failed plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors — accusing him of breaking trust “through deception” over the FIFA Forward Enterprise scheme. At the Tokyo Congress, Sheikh Salman said it was time “to move forward,” adding: “Yes, we had some issues, we spoke about them in the past, but let’s not relate the two things together.”
Infantino responded warmly: “I feel great about the AFC’s support.” Alongside his power base in Africa and South America, Asia’s 46 votes could prove crucial when the election takes place in Rabat in March (UEFA has 55 votes, Africa 54, Concacaf 35, Oceania 11 and Conmebol 10).
FIFA Presidential Election: Challengers and Deadlines
The deadline for candidates to confirm they are standing against Infantino is 18 November — and so far none have filed, meaning he could stand unopposed. Potential rivals including Concacaf chief Victor Montagliani and UEFA boss Aleksander Ceferin have let it be known they are not contenders, while Infantino has been touring the world shoring up support. Meanwhile, UEFA has given FIFA a 2 November deadline to release key documents and answer all questions relating to its governance and decision-making.
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Source: BBC Sport — read the full story there.
