Northern Ireland FA calls for change at FIFA, won't back Infantino
The Irish Football Association has withdrawn its support for FIFA president Gianni Infantino's re-election. The decision follows his failed attempt to sell a stake in FIFA's commercial operations. The IFA joins other UK football associations in opposing Infantino.
The IFA's decision marks the final UK football body to formally break with Infantino, following similar moves by England, Scotland, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland. The trigger was a controversial proposal to sell a 21% stake in FIFA's commercial rights to a private investment firm, which collapsed after UEFA threatened to boycott FIFA competitions.
Infantino, who has led FIFA since 2016, faces a re-election vote in March for what would be a fourth term. If successful, his presidency would stretch to 15 years by 2031. The IFA statement cited concerns over governance, strategy, and asset stewardship, saying the episode raised "fundamental questions" about his leadership.
This coordinated withdrawal of support across UK football associations could signal a broader erosion of confidence in FIFA's leadership, potentially influencing other national federations ahead of the March vote. It may also strengthen calls for greater transparency in how football's governing body manages commercial assets, with fans and players potentially feeling more empowered to demand accountability. The outcome could reshape the balance of power between FIFA and regional confederations.