French Football Federation withdraws backing for Gianni Infantino
The federation is set to formalize the move at a board meeting on 10 September 2026, removing support for the only declared FIFA candidate.
French media report that the French Football Federation will formally withdraw its backing for Gianni Infantino at the federation board meeting scheduled for 10 September 2026.
French outlets quoted a statement saying: "After the Executive Committee meeting, the decision will be made public and, unless there are major unforeseen circumstances, the French Football Federation is expected to withdraw its support for Infantino."
Infantino remains the only declared candidate for the upcoming FIFA presidential election, but his tenure has been marked by controversy — including a failed attempt to privatize the World Cup and repeated calls for his resignation.
Implications
The federation's withdrawal removes a significant European endorsement ahead of the vote and could prompt other national associations to reassess their positions. The timing — a formal announcement following the Executive Committee meeting — suggests the move is coordinated within the federation's leadership.
For Infantino, losing France's backing is a political setback that may complicate his re-election bid even if he remains the sole candidate on paper. For FIFA, the development increases uncertainty around the contest and the broader governance debate that has shadowed the organisation in recent years.
Photo: press material from the event
