Gianni Infantino loses Italy's backing before 2027 FIFA vote

Gianni Infantino has lost the support of Italy’s football federation, deepening the pressure on the FIFA president ahead of the next presidential election in March 2027. The FIGC’s decision places it alongside UEFA and other European federations questioning Infantino’s recent direction on governance and the development of international competitions.

FIGC president Giovanni Malagò confirmed that Italy would no longer support Infantino’s candidacy. He said the federation would continue working with UEFA and Europe’s other national associations around a football model centred on sporting merit, solidarity, sustainability and supporters. The FIGC also said its position was agreed with UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin.

The withdrawal follows the failed proposal for a FIFA commercial company, which has left Infantino facing sustained media and internal criticism. He had previously enjoyed broad support, but several backers have reconsidered their position in recent weeks as the 2027 contest begins to take shape.

Italy’s move strengthens UEFA’s opposition to Infantino’s current course and removes another European federation from his support base. The French Football Federation has not yet announced its position, although a public stance against his re-election has been suggested. The FIGC said its preferred approach was based on dialogue, listening and shared responsibility while protecting football’s founding principles.