Infantino on the brink: Who could take over FIFA?

Sun Sep 06 2026 04:44:30 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

FIFA president Gianni Infantino faces mounting challenges and a potential succession amid controversies and calls for reform.

Gianni Infantino, the long‑time FIFA president, is under increasing pressure after scrapping a controversial investment plan and facing criticism from national associations, the likes of UEFA, Concacaf, and the AFC. The backlash has forced key allies such as his special advisor Carlos Cordeiro to resign, and the organisation’s internal confidence is eroding. Experts suggest that Infantino’s survival will depend on retaining supporter from the member associations, but the outlook remains uncertain. Potential successors include Concacaf president Victor Montagliani, AFC president Sheikh Salman al‑Khalifa, PSG president Nasser Al‑Khelaifi, and FIFA secretary‑general Mattias Grafstrom, with the next president to be chosen at the 77th Congress in March.

Infantino on the brink

Gianni Infantino’s reign as FIFA president has taken a sharp turn for the worse after he halted a high‑profile investment plan, drawing ire from national associations and the continent‑wide federations of UEFA, Concacaf and the AFC. The move, intended to boost funding for World Cup events, was criticised for its opaque valuation and for being too tightly controlled by the organisation’s leadership, prompting calls for a boycott from some leagues.

The pressure also triggered the abrupt resignation of Carlos Cordeiro, Infantino’s senior adviser and a key supporter of the 2026 World Cup bid. In a statement to the Associated Press, FIFA’s chief operating officer Kevin Lamour said the project “misled” insiders, hinting at deeper governance issues and a loss of trust.

Despite the drama, the fate of Infantino’s presidency still hinges on the backing of national associations. Former FA chief David Bernstein warned that unless the president loses the support of enough member bodies, he may not be forced out. Former FIFA vice‑president Jim Boyce offered a more optimistic view, suggesting that he would still likely win a re‑election if the controversies quieten.

Potential rulers of FIFA

Victor Montagliani – As the current Concacaf president, he has championed governance reform and successfully steered the 2026 World Cup across three nations. His multilingual profile and track record in expanding continental tournaments make him a plausible contender.

Sheikh Salman al‑Khalifa – The AFL president has overseen staged growth of the Asian confederation’s leagues and has openly criticised Infantino’s leadership. Currently running to a fourth term, his criticism of FIFA’s openness could galvanise support among member nations.

Nasser Al‑Khelaifi – The PSG president and head of the European Football Clubs (EFC) could bring a powerful club‑centric voice. Despite his influence, sources suggest he is reluctant to accept a FIFA presidency.

Mattias Grafstrom – The newly appointed FIFA secretary‑general has close ties to Infantino and may represent continuity, but a lack of independence could be a liability in a succession debate.

The definitive decision will come at the 77th FIFA Congress in Morocco next March, where candidates must file by 18 November. Until then, the world watches a pivotal moment in football governance unfold.