The French Football Federation (FFF) has unanimously withdrawn its previous support for Gianni Infantino’s 2027 FIFA presidential re-election bid, while calling for fundamental reforms to the organisation’s governance structure.
The decision comes shortly after Infantino celebrated 10 years as FIFA president, marking a decade since he was elected to succeed Sepp Blatter in 2016. Infantino took charge during one of the most turbulent periods in FIFA’s history, following Blatter’s resignation amid widespread corruption allegations that severely damaged the governing body’s credibility.
Softfootball understands that when he assumed office, Infantino was elected with a mandate to reform FIFA, restore trust and improve the organisation’s reputation following the scandals that had engulfed world football. A decade later, however, the FFF’s decision suggests that concerns over transparency and governance remain significant.
France has now withdrawn its backing for Infantino’s attempt to secure another term ahead of the March 2027 FIFA presidential election in Morocco. The federation’s decision also places it alongside other prominent European associations, including England, Italy and Scotland, which have similarly pulled their support.
The FFF has specifically called for fundamental governance reform, with transparency emerging as one of the key issues behind its decision. Rather than simply opposing Infantino personally, France is demanding structural changes to how FIFA is governed.
Despite the growing resistance in Europe, Infantino retains considerable international support. CONMEBOL and CAF remain aligned with the FIFA president, ensuring that the battle for the presidency is likely to remain closely contested.
The Guardian
The timing adds another layer of significance. Infantino’s celebration of his first decade in office was intended to mark a major chapter in his FIFA presidency, but France’s withdrawal has provided a stark reminder that questions surrounding the organisation’s governance have not disappeared.
As the 2027 election approaches, Infantino will now face increasing pressure to defend his record and address calls for greater transparency, while rival federations push for a different direction at the top of world football.
