Javier Pastore backs Infantino with Argentine support

Javier Pastore’s public endorsement of Gianni Infantino adds three prominent Argentine football names to the FIFA president’s support base as the sport’s governing debate remains divided. Pastore, Javier Zanetti and Esteban Cambiasso issued their backing in a social-media message on Wednesday.

The trio praised Infantino’s work, saying it had given players a stronger voice in football’s decision-making. They said their views were being taken into account and that initiatives were developing through the ideas, plans and active involvement of players. Pastore, a former Paris Saint-Germain player, joined Zanetti and Cambiasso in pledging continued support for what they described as a major evolution under Infantino.

Their message said that process should help football continue expanding its benefits to people in every country where the sport is played. The endorsement comes as disagreements over Infantino’s leadership have widened following the failed proposal to create a commercial company linked to FIFA. The football world is now split between his supporters and opponents.

UEFA is considering ending its boycott of international competitions but is still seeking a way to remove Infantino, while the Italian federation has withdrawn its support for his 2027 election bid. In that setting, public backing from high-profile former players carries added importance for the FIFA chief.