FIFA president Infantino to run for fourth term despite controversy

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced on Sunday that he will run for a fourth and final term in the organization’s 2027 election, despite the controversy that surrounded his proposal earlier this year to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors. The plan, which Infantino first unveiled in April, triggered widespread criticism from member associations, sponsors and fans who argued that commercializing the tournament could undermine the sport’s integrity. After intense backlash, the governing body shelved the initiative, but the president’s intention to seek re‑election remains unchanged.

A FIFA spokesperson confirmed that “nothing has changed” regarding Infantino’s candidacy, reiterating the president’s commitment to continue leading the federation through the next election cycle. The statement came as the organization prepares for its quadrennial congress, where the vote will be held and where the future direction of global football governance will be debated. The upcoming election will be Infantino’s last permissible term under FIFA’s statutes, marking a pivotal moment for the sport’s leadership.