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Asian Football Confederation Reverses Course to Endorse Gianni Infantino for FIFA Presidency
In a significant political shift, the Asian Football Confederation has endorsed FIFA President Gianni Infantino for re-election, reversing its earlier criticism and strengthening his bid ahead of upcoming FIFA elections.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has officially endorsed FIFA President Gianni Infantino for another term, marking a dramatic reversal from its stance just two months ago when it criticised Infantino over a breach of trust. This unexpected endorsement was announced during the AFC’s extraordinary congress held in Tokyo on Friday.
Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim al-Khalifa, the AFC president, publicly praised Infantino and embraced him with a warm hug in front of the assembled members, signaling a renewed and positive relationship between the Asian football governing body and the FIFA president. This gesture was particularly notable given the AFC’s previous alignment with UEFA and CONCACAF, both of which had expressed serious reservations about Infantino’s leadership earlier this year.
The AFC’s endorsement arrives at a critical juncture as FIFA prepares for its presidential elections. Infantino, who has led world football’s governing body since 2016, faced significant opposition from multiple confederations earlier in the year. The shift in support from the AFC represents a crucial boost to his campaign and could influence voting dynamics among FIFA’s 211 member associations.
For the AFC, this change in stance may reflect evolving priorities within Asian football or the result of successful dialogue and negotiation between the confederation’s leadership and FIFA. By backing Infantino, the AFC not only strengthens his position but also asserts its growing influence within global football governance, potentially positioning itself as a kingmaker in the upcoming election.
This development sets the stage for intensified political maneuvering as the FIFA presidential election approaches. Infantino’s renewed backing from Asia may encourage other undecided confederations to align with him, shaping the future direction of FIFA’s leadership and policies in the coming years.
Looking ahead, all eyes will be on the FIFA Congress where the presidential vote will take place, determining whether Infantino secures another term amid an increasingly complex and competitive environment. The AFC’s endorsement could prove decisive in this closely watched contest.
Source: theguardian.com
