Israel withdraws support for Infantino amid growing FIFA leadership concerns

12:12

By: Azzat Manal

Israel withdraws support for Infantino amid growing FIFA leadership concerns

The Israel Football Association has withdrawn its previously announced support for Gianni Infantino's bid to remain president of FIFA, adding to growing criticism surrounding the leadership of world football's governing body.

According to a letter reportedly sent by Israel Football Association chairman Moshe Zuares, the decision is linked to concerns over FIFA's plans to involve outside investors in parts of its commercial structure. The move reflects growing unease among some national and continental football authorities over the direction of FIFA's financial and commercial strategy.

Infantino has faced criticism over proposals involving FIFA's commercial assets and the possibility of bringing private investors into businesses connected to the organization's revenue-generating activities. Although some of these plans were later abandoned or reconsidered, they have contributed to questions about transparency, governance and the future management of FIFA's commercial interests.

The Israeli federation indicated that its decision was driven by a lack of confidence, while also stressing its willingness to maintain constructive dialogue with FIFA and work toward a common vision for the future of international football.

The withdrawal comes as Infantino faces pressure from several major football confederations. UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation and Concacaf have all expressed concerns about aspects of FIFA's recent direction, highlighting the importance of consultation and confidence among the organization's members.

Earlier reports also suggested that FIFA had considered restructuring the management of the World Cup through a separate company and potentially selling a minority stake to private investors. The proposal reportedly involved a share of between 20% and 30%, but it faced strong opposition and was subsequently dropped.

The latest development could make Infantino's path toward another term more politically challenging, particularly as national associations play an important role in FIFA's presidential election process.

Infantino has led FIFA since 2016 and was re-elected in 2023. During his tenure, the organization has expanded the size of the men's World Cup and pursued major commercial and development initiatives, while also facing recurring debates over governance, financial transparency and the concentration of decision-making authority.

Israel's decision does not by itself determine the outcome of the election, but it adds to a growing list of disagreements between FIFA's leadership and football organizations over the future direction of the sport's global governing structure.