Pressure on FIFA President Gianni Infantino intensified on Tuesday after senior European football figures publicly backed calls for a change in the leadership of world football’s governing body.
Greek Football Association President Makis Gagatsis and former Germany national-team director Oliver Bierhoff joined growing opposition to Infantino, strengthening UEFA’s position as it seeks changes at the top of FIFA.
Gagatsis said the Greek federation had taken a clear position against Infantino’s candidacy, while Bierhoff also supported the push for a change in FIFA leadership.
The latest opposition comes as Infantino faces growing criticism over FIFA’s governance and a controversial proposal that would have allowed private investors to acquire a stake in commercial rights connected to FIFA competitions, including the World Cup.
The proposal was eventually abandoned after strong opposition from football stakeholders.
Infantino also apologised over the failed initiative, but the controversy has continued to damage confidence among some of FIFA’s member organisations.
UEFA has been at the centre of the challenge to Infantino.
The European governing body, together with other regional football organisations, has pushed for greater accountability and changes to FIFA’s leadership.
The dispute has also moved beyond political disagreements within football.
UEFA has said it is considering a criminal complaint in Switzerland alleging possible criminal mismanagement involving Infantino and other FIFA officials.
Infantino and FIFA have not been charged with wrongdoing.
Infantino, who has led FIFA since 2016, is expected to seek another term at the FIFA Congress scheduled for March 2027.
However, opponents are working to identify an alternative candidate before the election process advances.
Despite the pressure, Infantino retains significant support among FIFA member associations, meaning the campaign to remove him is far from certain to succeed.
According to Reuters reports; last week that opponents believe he currently has enough votes to survive a challenge.
The growing confrontation sets the stage for a major leadership battle ahead of the 2027 FIFA election, with the outcome potentially shaping the future direction and governance of world football.
