Infantino cites 211 votes after Asian confederation backs fourth term

FIFA President Gianni Infantino told the BBC on Friday that he holds the support of 211 member associations. He made the remarks while laughing at a question regarding whether he had considered resigning from his post. Infantino argued that the large majority of the global football community continues to back his leadership.

The recent shift in support follows a period of uncertainty caused by the failed FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal. That plan sought private investment for an entity that would control commercial rights for major FIFA competitions. Infantino abandoned the initiative, which led to calls for his resignation approximately three months ago. He has since moved into a stronger position regarding his future at the organization.

A key development occurred on Friday when Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, the president of the Asian Football Confederation, endorsed Infantino for a fourth term. Sheikh Salman stated that the Asian confederation is united behind the current president. This endorsement reverses the AFC's earlier stance, as the body had previously joined UEFA and CONCACAF in criticizing the failed commercial proposal.

Infantino noted that he recently returned from Tokyo, where the AFC gave its full endorsement. He also highlighted a trip to Cape Verde, where all African nations expressed their support. The president said he is currently in discussions with associations across the globe to ensure broad backing for his candidacy.

The change in direction from the AFC has left European football associations increasingly isolated. UEFA, along with a divided CONCACAF, had previously opposed the commercial plan. The shifting alliances also exposed a lack of a viable alternative candidate for the FIFA presidency, further solidifying Infantino's standing.

Infantino apologized at a FIFA Council meeting in Zurich last week for the handling of the FFE proposal. That gesture did not change the views of European associations, including those from Germany and England. However, the 56-year-old Swiss-Italian administrator struck a conciliatory tone in the BBC interview, stating that it is acceptable to disagree but necessary to move forward. He emphasized that it will be up to the member associations to decide who leads the organization.

Infantino is seeking a fourth term that would extend his presidency until 2031. Potential candidates have until November 18 to submit their nominations for the upcoming election.