Gianni Infantino loses Swiss backing as opposition grows ahead of FIFA election

The Swiss Football Association has withdrawn its support for Gianni Infantino’s bid for another term as FIFA president, citing concerns over leadership, governance and transparency.

The association’s executive committee reversed its June endorsement of Infantino following a meeting this week, The Guardian reported.

“The decision follows a comprehensive reassessment of developments over the past few months,” the SFV said.

“From the SFV’s perspective, various incidents raise fundamental questions regarding leadership, governance, transparency and ‌decision-making processes within Fifa.”

Infantino, who was born in Switzerland and has led FIFA since 2016, is seeking re-election in March.

Opposition to his candidacy has grown since plans to sell stakes in FIFA tournaments, including the World Cup, emerged in July.

The proposals were later abandoned following widespread criticism.

Football associations in England, Wales, France and Serbia are among those that have also withdrawn endorsements, while UEFA has said it plans to put forward a rival candidate.

Infantino has indicated he is open to discussions about reform, but the Swiss association said key concerns remain unresolved.

“As these have not been convincingly clarified, we cannot justify continuing to support Gianni Infantino’s candidacy,” the SFV said.