French Football Federation withdraws support for Infantino's FIFA re-election bid
The French Football Federation (FFF) withdrew its backing for Gianni Infantino's bid to be re-elected FIFA president, French daily Le Monde reported on Thursday. Infantino has recently faced criticism over several World Cup-related decisions.
The French Football Federation (FFF) decided on Thursday, following a meeting of its executive committee, to stop supporting Gianni Infantino's campaign for re-election as president of FIFA, international football's governing body. The move was reported by French newspaper Le Monde, citing a source familiar with the matter.
The decision comes after a period of mounting criticism directed at Infantino. One contentious issue involves his handling of the red-card decision given to Folarin Balogun during the World Cup. Another point of criticism concerns his unsuccessful plan to sell stakes in the tournament.
Earlier this year, Infantino and FFF president Philippe Diallo appeared together at the 2026 World Cup group-stage match between France and Iraq, held at Philadelphia Stadium in the United States.
The FFF had previously been counted among Infantino's supporters within international football circles, meaning this shift in position could affect the broader discussion around FIFA's leadership going forward.
