Infantino’s dilemma: After the World Cup finale, Infantino was welcome in the U.S. and handed the trophy to Spain and the U.S. President. But within weeks he pulled back a bold plan to sell stakes in FIFA competitions, sparking backlash from leaders and fans alike.
The idea’s collapse led to criticism from top football powers: UEFA, CONCACAF and the AFC, all questioning Infantino’s governance. The uproar also saw his special advisor, Carlos Cordeiro, resign.
Who might replace him?
- Victor Montagliani – Concacaf president who managed the 2026 World Cup rollout. He promises governance reform and has helped keep the game worldwide.
- Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al‑Khalifa – AFC president with a track record of expanding competitions and clubs in Asia.
- Nasser Al‑Khelaifi – PSG chairman who re‑branded the failed European Super League into the European Football Clubs association.
- Mattias Grafström – FIFA secretary general, a close ally of Infantino, but seen by some as too tied to the current leadership structure.
Group leaders say a replacement might be chosen at FIFA’s March Congress in Morocco, though candidates have until November 18 to file. The race could reshape global football politics and determine whether the sport’s governance grows stronger or weakens under new leadership.
