We stand firm: Watzke slams Infantino, stresses clear DFB stance

In the noble hotel at Potsdamer Platz, shortly before the UEFA meeting in Berlin, Hans‑Joachim Watzke declared emphatically: “We have a clear opinion as the DFB.” The DFB vice and league president again criticized FIFA president Gianni Infantino and pointed to numerous wrong decisions of the past weeks.

Criticism of Infantino and his mistakes

Watzke emphasized that “so many mistakes have happened, from the peace prize over the Balogun issue to the investor story as the climax.” He described Infantino as “no longer tolerable” and said he had greatly harmed football. Within the DFB there is consensus that the Swiss “has squandered all trust” and must be removed from his position.

DFB strategy and possible counter‑candidate

DFB president Bernd Neuendorf had already called for sending a counter‑candidate into the race – it does not necessarily have to be a European, a candidate from another confederation is also conceivable. The deadline for nominating an alternative expires on 18 November.

Watzke spoke immediately before the meeting of the European Football Union (UEFA) in Berlin and emphasized that the European associations are discussing the further course in the FIFA power struggle. Although UEFA on Thursday will hardly present a counter‑candidate for the election in March 2027 in Rabat, the Berlin meeting sends an important signal.

A third Swiss wants to succeed Infantino at FIFA

Infantino, 56 years old, came under massive pressure after his failed investor venture. He has promised reform willingness as well as payouts from the FIFA reserves to reduce the attack surface for his opponents.

AFC president Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa approached Infantino this week, while the Arab umbrella organization UAFA, including Qatar and Saudi Arabia, continues to stand behind the FIFA chief. The Latvian association and Azerbaijan also recently expressed support for Infantino.

Ramon Vega challenges Infantino – Swiss former pro wants FIFA presidency

In Prague Infantino was most recently received, while the opposition continental associations from Europe, Asia (AFC) and North and Central America (CONCACAF) cannot fully rally their members behind them.