Aleksander Ceferin Declines FIFA Presidency but Warns Gianni Infantino to Step Down or Face Opposition
Ceferin Confirms No FIFA Presidency Bid but Issues Stark Warning to Infantino
UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has decisively ruled out running for the FIFA presidency, yet he did not hold back about Gianni Infantino's future. The Slovenian leader stated that Infantino must resign or prepare for a tough challenge at the next FIFA Congress.
Infantino Under Fire Over World Cup Investment Plans
Pressure is mounting on Infantino after his controversial attempt to seek private investment for upcoming World Cups. These efforts were scrapped following fierce criticism, leading UEFA, Concacaf, and AFC to consider no-confidence motions. Allegations of misleading tactics have surfaced, with European officials even threatening to boycott FIFA events.
Despite this turmoil, Ceferin made clear he won’t pursue the FIFA leadership role. Seen by many as a likely contender, he prefers to remain focused on his UEFA responsibilities.
Ceferin Signals Potential Leadership Clash
On The Rest Is Politics podcast, Ceferin explained why he’s stepping back. He said, “I’m not interested because of two reasons. One, I love UEFA and my work here, and I think it’s time to enjoy life a bit. The second reason is my credibility is stronger if I’m not seeking the position.”
Still, he warned a confrontation is possible. “Things change daily,” he said. Ceferin suggested Infantino faces two paths: realize he lacks support from voters, fans, players, and coaches, or face an opponent in the March elections. “I don’t know yet who that candidate will be,” he added.
FIFA Tries to Frame European Dissent, Says Ceferin
Infantino’s situation in Europe has drastically shifted. Once backed strongly by European associations, including in the UK and Ireland, many now have withdrawn support. According to Ceferin, FIFA attempts to portray this opposition as an elitist European plot.
“What I hear is they play on the idea of arrogant Europe against us,” Ceferin said. “They say, ‘We have money, but I help the small and poor,’ and similar lines. But someone should remind him he’s European and was supported by UEFA, which he seems to have forgotten.”
March FIFA Congress Could Decide Football’s Future
The next FIFA Congress in Morocco will be crucial for the organization’s leadership. While Infantino still holds backing from African and South American confederations, coordinated no-confidence votes might force a historic change.
If Infantino refuses to step down, an opposing candidate is expected to emerge soon. For now, the FIFA president remains defiant as the football world watches closely to see who will challenge his troubled tenure.
