Infantino Challenged? UEFA Eyes Alternative FIFA Candidates Amid Unrest - Report

Published 14 July 2026 · sports

Infantino Challenged? UEFA Eyes Alternative FIFA Candidates Amid Unrest - Report Published By, Last Updated: July 14, 2026, 20:50 IST UEFA federations are exploring candidates

Infantino Challenged? UEFA Eyes Alternative FIFA Candidates Amid Unrest - Report Published By, Last Updated: July 14, 2026, 20:50 IST UEFA federations are exploring candidates to challenge Gianni Infantino in November's FIFA presidential election, with support growing for an alternative to the incumbent. Rapid Read FIFA President Gianni Infantino (AP Photo) A growing number of UEFA member associations are exploring the possibility of backing a rival candidate to challenge Gianni Infantino in November’s FIFA presidential election, according to talkSPORT. Infantino confirmed at FIFA Congress in April that he intends to seek a third term as president and has been expected to run unopposed. However, fresh momentum is building within European football to ensure the election features a genuine contest rather than a formality. As per talkSPORT, The push comes amid increasing tensions between FIFA and UEFA following the controversial suspension of USA striker Folarin Balogun’s red card during the FIFA World Cup. Earlier reports state Infantino received a phone call from US President Donald Trump urging a review of the decision, prompting UEFA to accuse FIFA of “crossing a red line." While Infantino insisted FIFA’s disciplinary committee acted independently, questions remain over the reasoning behind Balogun’s successful appeal.

Reports suggest the decision was made solely by FIFA Disciplinary Committee chairman Mohammad Al Kamali. Despite speculation, UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin is not expected to challenge Infantino. Although the pair have clashed on several issues in recent years, the Slovenian is understood to favour remaining at UEFA and is prepared to seek another term if required. Instead, multiple UEFA federations are reportedly discussing alternative candidates. PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has emerged as a popular option, with Belgium and Poland said to be among those who would support his candidacy. However, the influential European Club Association chairman is not believed to have ambitions of running for FIFA president and would require significant persuasion. Should Al-Khelaifi decline, Legia Warsaw owner Dariusz Mioduski has also been discussed, with Polish officials particularly supportive of his potential candidacy. Senior football figures in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Norway, Sweden, Germany and Spain have also reportedly explored backing other European candidates. Beyond UEFA, CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani has long been viewed as a possible future FIFA president, although his current priority remains securing another term leading the North and Central American confederation.