Infantino’s Power Tested: FIFA President Faces Growing Opposition Ahead of 2027 Re-Election

FIFA president Gianni Infantino is facing mounting opposition within world football, with UEFA escalating its challenge over a controversial investment proposal and his previously expected easy re-election in March 2027 now looking less certain.

The backlash follows FIFA's abandoned $4.2 billion investment plan, which would have given private investors led by US businessman Joshua Kushner a stake in profits from future World Cups and other FIFA tournaments. FIFA withdrew the proposal on August 1, shortly after it became public and triggered intense criticism.

The dispute has since taken a legal turn. UEFA said Thursday it was preparing a possible criminal complaint in Switzerland, where FIFA is headquartered, alleging mismanagement. It has also sought evidence through US courts concerning the proposed investment arrangement.

UEFA's move has intensified pressure on Infantino, whose critics argue that the proposal could have allowed private investors to profit from FIFA's most valuable assets. FIFA has not commented on the latest developments.

The political fallout is also threatening Infantino's re-election prospects. Norway has called for his resignation, while UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation and CONCACAF have accused the FIFA president of “deception.” Together, the three confederations represent a large share of FIFA's 211 member associations.

However, Infantino still has significant support, particularly among federations in Asia, Africa and South America that rely heavily on FIFA funding. He needs a majority of FIFA members to win another term, and no challenger has emerged so far.

Infantino has continued meeting FIFA members, including a recent visit to the Caribbean, followed by a trip to Vietnam.

The presidential candidate deadline is November 18, giving opponents several months to organise. UEFA's September meeting and upcoming European club discussions could further shape the contest.

For now, Infantino has given no indication that he intends to resign, but his hold over FIFA is facing an increasingly serious test.