French FA set to oppose Infantino in FIFA election

The French Football Federation is preparing to withdraw its backing for Gianni Infantino’s bid to remain FIFA president, marking a significant loss of support for the incumbent in Europe. The federation is expected to make its position public after a meeting of its executive committee on Wednesday.

France’s stance follows growing disagreement between Infantino and several European federations. The FFF was particularly unhappy with a proposal to sell part of the World Cup’s capital to private investors, a plan that was later dropped. Its decision would place France alongside Sweden, Scotland, Italy and Belgium, all of which have also opposed Infantino.

The development comes as Infantino seeks another term after first taking charge of FIFA in 2016. The former UEFA official, who previously worked closely with Michel Platini, had strengthened his position during his presidency, but the approaching election is now exposing divisions among his European supporters. Losing the FFF would add to those concerns and leave Infantino relying more heavily on backing from outside Europe as he attempts to secure re-election.