Infantino's FIFA Throne Under Threat? Japan's Kohzo Tashima Steps Up for Presidential Battle

Kohzo Tashima, a member of FIFA's ruling council and former president of the Japan Football Association (JFA), is preparing to challenge incumbent Gianni Infantino in next year's FIFA presidential election, potentially setting up a major contest for the leadership of world football.

The 68-year-old Japanese football administrator has reportedly announced his intention to contest the election scheduled for March 18, 2027, in Rabat, Morocco. Japanese media reports said the JFA board had unanimously agreed to support his candidature.

Tashima is the first serious challenger to emerge against Infantino, who has been at the helm of FIFA since 2016 and is seeking another term despite growing criticism over his leadership.

"The worst thing that can happen is he (Infantino) is re-elected to the post without an election," Tashima was quoted as saying by Japanese newspaper Nikkei.

Infantino has faced mounting opposition following a controversial proposal in July to sell stakes in future World Cup profits to private investors. The plan was withdrawn within days after drawing strong criticism from football officials across Europe, Asia and North America.

FIFA has also come under scrutiny over disciplinary decisions involving Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, United States forward Folarin Balogun and Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.

Tashima, a former Japan international midfielder, has served on FIFA's ruling council since 2015. Known for his diplomatic approach, he has remained an influential figure in Asian football politics.

Candidates must secure formal backing from at least five of FIFA's 211 member associations before the November 18 deadline and clear an eligibility assessment.

European football's governing body UEFA has also been exploring ways to field a challenger against Infantino, although it remains unclear whether it will formally back Tashima.

Infantino's bid for another term has also raised questions over FIFA's presidential term limits, with critics arguing that his tenure could extend to 2031 despite the organisation's 12-year limit. FIFA's interpretation, however, excludes his initial 2016-19 term from the calculation.