Italian FA withdraws support for Infantino over World Cup stake plan

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced on Wednesday that it is formally withdrawing its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s candidacy in the March 2027 presidential election, citing disagreement with his proposals to sell stakes in competitions such as the World Cup.

Official withdrawal and Infantino’s plans

The Italian FA (FIGC) released a formal statement declaring that it will no longer back Gianni Infantino’s bid for re‑election as FIFA President. The communiqué stressed a commitment to a football model based on merit and sustainability, quoting: ‘We will continue to work alongside UEFA and the other European associations to promote an idea of football based on merit and sustainability, putting fans at the centre’.

Infantino’s future as head of world football’s governing body has been cast into doubt after his highly‑controversial intention to sell stakes in certain competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors.

Broader fallout and election outlook

Infantino has faced backlash after mocking Italy for failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, and he was photographed arriving before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A match between Mexico and South Africa at Mexico City Stadium on June 11, 2026.

FIGC withdraws support for Infantino, backs UEFA stance

A number of associations and high‑profile individuals have already withdrawn their support for Infantino ahead of the next FIFA Presidential elections, which are scheduled for the spring of 2027.

FIGC President Giovanni Malagò said the decision expresses the federation’s position on the President’s recent initiatives and is taken in full agreement with UEFA and its President Aleksander Ceferin.

The FIFA presidential elections are set for March 2027, and the Italian FA’s withdrawal signals a clear stance as the voting process approaches.