The Football Association of Wales (FAW) has become the first national football federation to officially withdraw its support for Gianni Infantino's bid for re-election as FIFA president, according to Sky News. The move follows Infantino's attempt to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors.
In a statement, the FAW said it was confirming the withdrawal of its support for Infantino's candidacy for re-election to the FIFA presidency for the 2027-2031 term. The federation said recent failures in matters of good governance, procedures, leadership, values, stakeholder management, communication and sound judgment had led it to conclude that Infantino had lost the FAW's trust to remain at the helm of world football. It added that failing to put the interests of football above everything else was something it could not accept.
Wales Notifies FIFA
According to Sky News, the FAW has already formally notified FIFA of its position on Infantino, despite his own statement withdrawing the plan to sell a World Cup stake. The same source said other national federations were expected to follow Wales, increasing pressure on Infantino to step down without a formal motion of no confidence being required.
Presidency Under Pressure
Infantino had planned to seek a new term next year, but his presidency now appears to be in deep crisis. UEFA has criticised what it called secret plans with extremely tight timelines, drawn up by anonymous individuals and of doubtful benefit to football. UEFA added that it was working on a plan to ensure such a situation could not be repeated, saying no option had been ruled out.
Wales holds one of eight votes on the International Football Association Board (IFAB), the body that sets football's rules and which hosted Infantino at its annual meeting last February.
