The football associations of Mexico and Argentina have recently expressed their support for Gianni Infantino, the embattled president of FIFA, despite his failed plans to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors. This development comes after Infantino received the 'full support' of FIFA's management board. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also reaffirmed its support for Infantino, thanking him for his contributions to African football. Meanwhile, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has praised FIFA's work over the past decade, highlighting its focus on developing soccer worldwide and promoting a clear, stable, and transparent governance model.
The Mexican Football Federation (FMF) has broken ranks with its regional confederation, CONCACAF, by backing Infantino. However, despite this support, Infantino continues to face intense criticism, with his survival dependent on a numbers game. To call for an Emergency FIFA Congress, 20 percent of the 211 FIFA member associations (43 FAs) are required.
A vote of no confidence could be held at the Congress, and if a majority of 106 votes is reached, Infantino could be ousted. The sizes of each confederation and the number of members or votes they have will play a crucial role in determining Infantino's fate. UEFA members of the FIFA Council could also call an Emergency Council meeting and force him out with a no-confidence vote. Infantino's plans have been widely criticized, with Arsene Wenger, FIFA's chief of global football development, distancing himself publicly, and Carlos Cordeiro, Infantino's senior advisor, quitting his role.
The world players' union, FIFPRO, has also slammed the 'cover-up' surrounding the situation and expressed deep concern over FIFA's statement. The FA has formally announced its intention to withdraw support for Infantino's re-election as president, while Lucy Bronze, the England and Chelsea defender, has backed UEFA's boycott of FIFA competitions. With the first test of UEFA's boycott approaching at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup, Infantino's position remains precarious, despite the backing of some governing body leaders.