UEFA leaders want Al-Khelaifi to challenge Infantino for FIFA presidency
European football leaders are reportedly encouraging Nasser Al-Khelaifi to challenge Gianni Infantino for the FIFA presidency amid growing opposition to FIFA’s World Cup commercial plans.
European football leaders are pushing for Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi to challenge FIFA president Gianni Infantino in next year’s presidential election, according to reports.
The Telegraph, citing sources familiar with the discussions, said Al-Khelaifi is viewed as the strongest candidate to unite opposition against Infantino following controversy surrounding FIFA’s proposed World Cup commercial sell-off.
The reported move comes as UEFA prepares an emergency meeting to discuss its response to the proposal, including the possibility of a World Cup boycott.
The plan has drawn criticism over governance and transparency, with several football bodies arguing they were not properly consulted before FIFA unveiled the initiative.
Recent reports also indicate opposition has spread beyond Europe, with the Asian Football Confederation raising concerns over the process.
Despite the growing backing, Al-Khelaifi has publicly ruled out seeking the FIFA presidency. A representative for the Qatari executive said he has “no ambition, no intention, no interest” in the role and will continue supporting football’s governing institutions.
Removing a sitting FIFA president would require majority support from the organisation’s 211 member associations, making any leadership challenge a significant task.
