Infantino on course for landslide re-election as FIFA President in 2027 with over 200 associations’ backing

Gianni Infantino is set to secure a fourth term as FIFA President in 2027, having reportedly secured the formal backing of more than 200 of the world governing body’s 211 member associations.

According to The Guardian, the Swiss-Italian incumbent has already received close to 200 official letters of support, with over 50 of Europe’s 55 member associations also pledging their allegiance. The development places Infantino in a commanding position ahead of the election, scheduled for 18 March 2027 at the 77th FIFA Congress in Rabat, Morocco.

European Resistance, but No Serious Challenger

Despite the overwhelming support, opposition persists—particularly from Europe. The German Football Association (DFB) has declined to sign a formal letter endorsing Infantino’s candidacy, while the French Football Federation has also yet to take a public position. Several other European federations remain undecided, with some reportedly feeling pressure from FIFA to declare their loyalty.

However, no serious challenger has emerged. The deadline for candidate nominations is 18 November, but with Infantino already commanding such a formidable majority, any opposition bid appears largely symbolic. Behind the scenes, UEFA continues to explore the possibility of fielding a candidate against the incumbent—though finding a figure capable of uniting sufficient support appears increasingly difficult.

Balogun Controversy Fails to Dent Support

The re-election drive comes despite significant criticism directed at Infantino during the recent 2026 World Cup. The controversy centred on the overturning of a red card suspension for United States striker Folarin Balogun following a reported phone call between Infantino and US President Donald Trump. The decision drew sharp rebuke from UEFA, which expressed “disbelief over such an unprecedented, incomprehensible, and unjustified decision”.

Nevertheless, the fallout has done little to erode Infantino’s support base beyond Europe. As DR Sporten commentator Henrik Liniger observed: “Infantino is a very popular figure everywhere other than in Europe, and he has deliberately sought to build his backing from the rest of the world”. He added that many associations support the president “not necessarily because they agree with everything he does, but to maintain a chance of gaining influence over what happens in FIFA over the next four years”.

Africa, Asia, and South America Solidify the Bloc

Infantino’s path to re-election was effectively secured months ago. At the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver in April 2026, he formally announced his candidacy. By that time, the African Football Confederation (CAF) had already unanimously endorsed him, with all 54 member associations pledging their support. The Asian and South American confederations followed suit shortly thereafter.

With these three confederations united behind him, Infantino already commanded the required majority well before the European debate intensified.

A Fourth and Final Term?

If re-elected, Infantino—who succeeded Sepp Blatter in 2016 and was twice returned unopposed—would serve until 2031. Under FIFA statutes, this would be his final term as president. The election in Rabat will mark the second consecutive FIFA Congress hosted in Africa, reflecting the continent’s growing political influence within the organisation.

For now, all signs point to a coronation rather than a contest—unless a dramatic shift reshapes the political landscape before the November deadline.