Key facts
- Six Arab football federations have publicly backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
- The federations of Qatar, Lebanon, Morocco, Sudan, Egypt, and Mauritania signed a joint statement of support.
- Infantino is seeking re-election next year and faces opposition from UEFA, AFC, and CONCACAF.
- Concerns have been raised about Infantino's aborted bid to bring private investment into FIFA competitions.
- Four of the six signatories are FIFA Council members.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has secured the backing of six Arab national football associations, including Qatar and Morocco, amid a leadership crisis. The federations issued a joint statement expressing full support for Infantino's leadership and commitment to global football development. This comes after three major confederations – UEFA, AFC, and CONCACAF – called for Infantino's resignation following his failed proposal to bring private investment into FIFA competitions, which aimed to raise approximately $4.2 billion by selling 20% of commercial rights.
The statement from the Arab federations highlighted their appreciation for Infantino's efforts to advance football globally and expand opportunities. Four of the six signatories are also FIFA Council members. Despite the opposition, Infantino is still expected to have sufficient allies among the 211 member associations to secure re-election in the upcoming presidential vote.