Ex‑internationals demand FIFA change as Infantino eyes 2027

A group of former international players, led by ex‑France defender Mikaël Silvestre, publicly demanded a “change” at FIFA on Monday, directly targeting Gianni Infantino as the organisation prepares for the World Cup 2026 (Coupe du Monde 2026) and called for greater player and supporter oversight of football governance.

The trio of Silvestre, Emmanuel Petit and Olivier Dacourt posted a joint statement on their social networks, writing: “The change is necessary. The exercise of power has altered the ability of current leaders to distinguish personal interests from the greater interest of football.” They did not name Gianni Infantino explicitly in the quote.

The text, written in three languages, was drafted by Silvestre, who serves on a FIFA panel of former players against racism. He told AFP the statement would be circulated more widely in the coming hours. English defender Lucy Bronze, a double European champion, has already shared the appeal.

The former internationals say they share the concerns of millions of supporters worldwide, observing that the sport is drifting away from its core values under the current FIFA leadership. They also referenced Infantino’s secret talks to place World Cup revenues in a commercial vehicle open to private investors, a scheme abandoned this summer after pressure from European, North‑American and Asian confederations.

Infantino faces mounting defections

Despite the calls for his resignation, Gianni Infantino remains determined to run for a new term on 18 March 2027 in Rabat. Two months ago he claimed the backing of more than 200 national federations, but defections are accelerating.

On Monday, Gibraltar’s withdrawal joined those of England, Ireland, Wales, Sweden, Israel and New Zealand, underscoring growing dissent among members. The former players urged “all stakeholders to act now,” echoing a supporters’ petition launched last week that demands fundamental reform of FIFA.

While the pressure mounts, Infantino’s bid for re‑election will test whether the growing coalition of former players and federations can influence the governance of the sport ahead of the 2026 tournament.