Gianni Infantino Gets Six-Nation Arab Backing As FIFA Faces Growing Rift

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has received a major show of support from six Arab football federations as a growing revolt threatens his position following his controversial World Cup investment proposal.

The football associations of Morocco, Qatar, Egypt, Mauritania, Lebanon and Sudan issued a joint statement on Thursday expressing their “full support” and confidence in Infantino’s leadership. They praised his efforts to expand football globally, create opportunities across regions and strengthen the sport’s role in bringing communities together.

The backing comes as Infantino faces mounting criticism over his plan to raise around $20 billion through private investment in the World Cup. He withdrew the proposal after strong opposition from football officials worldwide.

UEFA has emerged as one of the strongest critics, warning of a possible boycott of FIFA competitions and events. UEFA joined CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) in an open letter describing the proposal as a serious breach of trust and criticising the lack of consultation.

The pressure increased on Thursday when the Football Association of Ireland withdrew its support for Infantino’s re-election, citing concerns over governance, transparency and consultation. England and Wales had already withdrawn their backing, while Northern Ireland said it supported UEFA’s position.

The latest Arab statement also highlights a growing divide within the Asian football bloc, with Qatar and Lebanon backing Infantino despite the AFC’s opposition.

Four of the six signatories are FIFA Council members: Qatar’s Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Egypt’s Hany Abo Rida, Morocco’s Fouzi Lekjaa and Mauritania’s Ahmed Yahya.

Infantino has headed FIFA since 2016 and had appeared set for an uncontested re-election. However, FIFA’s November 18 deadline for challengers leaves his future at the organisation increasingly uncertain.