FIFA president Gianni Infantino has welcomed the Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) endorsement of his bid for a fourth term, saying he can count on Asia’s continued support for world football.
Infantino spoke after AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa announced the confederation’s backing at an extraordinary congress in Tokyo on Friday, October 23.
“I know as president of FIFA and as FIFA as an organisation that we can always count on Asia, on a united Asia, on a strong Asia,” Infantino said, praising the continent’s role as a host, participant and contributor to the game.
The endorsement strengthens Infantino’s position ahead of the March 2027 FIFA presidential election, with nominations closing on November 18. The AFC’s 47 member associations could play an important role in the contest.
The backing follows tensions over Infantino’s proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise, a commercial venture involving private investment in FIFA’s commercial rights. The plan was abandoned after criticism from the AFC, UEFA and CONCACAF.
Sheikh Salman, who had previously criticised the proposal, said the focus should now be on moving forward together.
However, Infantino continues to face pressure over FIFA’s governance. UEFA has demanded answers on several issues, including the abandoned investment plan, and given FIFA until November 2 to respond.
The European governing body has also expressed a loss of confidence in Infantino’s leadership and is considering whether to support an alternative candidate, although no challenger has been confirmed.
Infantino took office in 2016 and, if re-elected, would remain president until 2031. With nominations closing next month, the AFC’s endorsement adds to the support Infantino has received from other confederations, including CAF, even as questions over his leadership persist.
