Tomorrow’s re-election of Fifa President Gianni Infantino at the congress in Rwanda is generating controversy. While almost all of the 211 member associations support his re-election, the German Football Association (DFB), along with Sweden and Norway, will not endorse him.
Infantino has been criticized for lack of transparency and for being more dangerous than his predecessor, Sepp Blatter. When he was elected in 2016, Infantino promised to clean up the corrupt world association, but his six years in sole rule have been marked by controversy.
At the World Cup in Qatar last year, Infantino banned the “One Love” armband and served as a mouthpiece and instrument for the Qataris. The host country was heavily criticized for its treatment of the LGBTQ community and guest workers. Infantino also pushed for the expansion of the World Cup, increasing the number of teams from 32 to 48 in 2026.
In addition, Infantino is planning a new Club World Cup with 32 teams every four years, another club competition from 2025, and an annual mini-tournament of the winners of the major confederation competitions, including the Champions League winners from Europe.
The DFB’s decision to withhold support is based on their dissatisfaction with the lack of information provided by Fifa on various issues. In a statement, DFB President Bernd Neuendorf said: “Fifa must become much more open and transparent in dealing with the national associations. That has not always been the case lately.”
Opposing candidates are not allowed, and there can only be a yes or no vote. Neuendorf will vote against Infantino, and there is a possibility that Fifa’s president may be confirmed in office through acclamation. Regardless of the outcome, concerns about Infantino’s leadership and lack of transparency are causing controversy within the sports world.
