Infantino's plans to sell stakes in certain competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors have been at the centre of the controversy. The FIGC's decision to withdraw its support for Infantino is the latest blow to his presidency, with a number of associations and high-profile individuals already having done so ahead of the next FIFA Presidential elections in March 2027.
The FIGC's statement makes it clear that the decision is not a personal attack on Infantino, but rather a reflection of the federation's values and priorities. "We will continue to work alongside UEFA and the other European associations to promote an idea of football based on merit and sustainability, putting fans at the centre," Malagò said. The FIGC's decision is likely to be seen as a significant development in the lead-up to the FIFA Presidential elections, and could potentially have a major impact on Infantino's chances of re-election.
The FIGC's withdrawal of support for Infantino is the latest in a series of controversies to have surrounded the FIFA President in recent months. Infantino has faced criticism for his comments about Italy's failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, as well as his plans to sell stakes in certain competitions to private investors. The FIGC's decision to withdraw its support for Infantino is a clear indication that the federation is not willing to stand by him in the face of such criticism.
The next step for Infantino will be to see how the FIGC's decision affects his chances of re-election as FIFA President. The FIFA Presidential elections are scheduled to take place in March 2027, and Infantino will need to win the support of a significant number of associations and individuals in order to secure his position.