New Zealand Football Withdraws Support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino

As concerns mount over FIFA President Gianni Infantino, New Zealand Football (NZF) has officially retracted its backing for his re-election bid at the upcoming FIFA Congress in 2027. This decision marks a significant divergence from the broader stance of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), of which New Zealand is the sole member to withdraw support.

Infantino’s re-election campaign has faced considerable challenges, particularly in light of his controversial proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors. His support has dwindled significantly, with notable withdrawals from several football governing bodies, including UEFA, Concacaf, and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Individual associations from England, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland have also declined to support him.

In its statement, NZF expressed that it views the current moment as an opportunity for FIFA member associations to pursue stronger governance and accountability. They also announced their intention to seek an independent review of the FIFA Forward Enterprise scheme, citing a breakdown of trust and increased division within international football as influencing factors for their decision.

“New Zealand Football (NZF) today announced that it has formally withdrawn its support for the candidature of Gianni Infantino as FIFA President at the 2027 FIFA Congress,” the statement read. “After careful consideration, NZF has formed the view that decisions and actions within FIFA have contributed to a breakdown in trust and increased division within international football, and that an independent review is required to restore confidence and trust.”

Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and CONMEBOL have voiced their support for Infantino, enabling him to potentially secure a fourth presidential term at the March FIFA Congress.

The OFC, in a separate statement, acknowledged FIFA’s decision to withdraw the FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal but did not call for Infantino’s resignation. They recognized the progress made in developing football in Oceania under FIFA’s guidance and encouraged a review as a chance to introduce necessary changes.

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn