The French Football Federation has unanimously decided to withdraw its support for FIFA president Gianni Infantino ahead of the world governing body's presidential election in 2027.
The executive committee of the organization, known as the FFF, voted unanimously to end its backing for Infantino as opposition to his leadership continues to grow across European football federations.
Philippe Diallo, the head of the French association, said trust placed in the FIFA president had been broken. He added that the way French football leaders imagine the governance of world football no longer corresponds to how it is currently conducted.
The decision represents a major reversal for the French federation. As late as the end of June, the FFF had been prepared to support Infantino's bid to remain at the head of world football.
Controversy over FIFA Forward Enterprise plan
A central factor in the shift was Infantino's controversial FIFA Forward Enterprise project. Under the proposal, Infantino sought to establish a dedicated entity to manage FIFA's commercial operations and sell up to 20 percent of its shares to private investors.
The global football governing body aimed to raise approximately $4.2 billion through the deal. The plan encompassed commercial rights linked to FIFA's major tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup.
The initiative generated significant controversy, particularly regarding how the project was handled and allegations of insufficient consultation with key stakeholders. Infantino was ultimately forced to abandon the proposal following a widespread wave of opposition.
The French Football Federation is the governing body of football in France, overseeing the domestic game and national teams. FIFA, based in Switzerland, serves as the international governing body for association football and organizes major global tournaments including the quadrennial World Cup.
Growing European opposition to Infantino
French officials acknowledged that the commercial initiative heavily influenced their decision to break with Infantino. Following the dispute, the FFF began raising questions regarding how FIFA is governed and how key decisions are made.
France is not alone in withdrawing support for the current FIFA president. Other European football associations, including those of Belgium and England, have also withdrawn their backing for Infantino, signaling a widening opposition across the continent.
Infantino still intends to stand for reelection to retain his position at the head of FIFA. The next FIFA presidential election is scheduled to take place on March 18, 2027, in Rabat, the capital city of Morocco.
