Niersbach warns against premature ouster of Infantino as health wanes

In a quiet office, FIFA president Gianni Infantino, 56, looks more frail than at any point in his tenure. Former DFB official Wolfgang Niersbach, speaking to t‑online, warns that calls for the Swiss chief’s removal are premature and could repeat history.

Seven months to the 2027 election

Niersbach told t‑online that there are only seven months left until the next FIFA presidential election in March 2027. He said he does not want to exclude the possibility that history could repeat itself at the end of Infantino’s term.

Past attempts to unseat FIFA chiefs

The former DFB president recalled two earlier European attempts to remove a FIFA chief. In 1998 Europe tried to replace UEFA president Lennart Johansson with FIFA chief Sepp Blatter, and four years later Europe backed African president Issa Hayatou against Blatter shortly before the Japan‑South Korea World Cup.

Both efforts failed, and Niersbach noted that Europe was convinced it could succeed at the time.

No clear successor

Niersbach said no strong alternative has yet emerged to challenge Infantino. He highlighted Concacaf president Victor Montagliani as a “very capable man” who could be considered for a future succession.

In March, DFB boss Neuendorf will not support Infantino

Montagliani and his confederation have openly positioned themselves against Infantino.

Critique of Infantino’s investor plan

The former DFB functionary accused Infantino of misjudging his own investor plan, describing it as an “egregious breach” of governance. He added that a unilateral letter to member associations demanding a decision by September violated all good‑governance rules.

Niersbach called the communication that followed “unbearable” and contrary to established procedures.

From ally to critic

During his time as DFB secretary‑general and president, Niersbach worked closely with Infantino, then UEFA general secretary, and once described him as competent, highly professional and reliable.

He now believes Infantino has lost the consistency and groundedness that marked his earlier career, suggesting the pressures of the FIFA presidency may have changed him.