9 minutes agoThe Balog scandal does not shake, Infantino towards the fourth term, over 200 federations give support
Periskopi(an hour ago)
(an hour ago)Gianni Infantino is very close to re-election for a fourth term at the helm of FIFA, as he has secured the official support of more than 200 of the 211 member federations, despite the tense climate created after the controversy for the cancelled suspension of US striker Falari Balog.
According to the British newspaper The Guardian, only a small number of federations have yet to send letters of support. Among them is the German Football Federation, one of the most important names that has yet to officially state its stance.
The deadline for submitting candidates for FIFA elections is November 18th, while by that date the federations can withdraw or transfer their support. However, actually Infantino is the only candidate, even though some federations claim they have felt pressure from within FIFA to publicly confirm support, a practice that theoretically conflicts with the organisation's ethical code.
Although the controversy has intensified following US President Donald Trump's statement, which admitted having lobbied near FIFA to review Balog's red card to Bosnia and Herzegovina, it does not appear to have affected Infantino's positions.
Disatisfactions have focused mainly on Europe, but this does not seriously endanger its re-election. Most European federations, including the English Federation, have even sent official support.
In recent days, the possibility for UEFA to support an alternative candidate has been discussed, but so far there is no concrete name that may challenge Infantino. Sources close to European football believe even a candidate who would secure 30-40 votes would serve to open a debate on how FIFA is governed.
The FIFA member federations will gather this Saturday in New York, where the World's financial results and economic benefits for federations are expected to be part of the official agenda. T CH
