Zurich, Switzerland: The Swiss Football Association (SFV) has withdrawn its support for Gianni Infantino’s bid for another term as FIFA president, reversing its endorsement of the incumbent ahead of the March 2027 election.
The decision was announced on Wednesday, 30 September, following a reassessment by the association’s executive committee, which had backed Infantino’s candidacy in June.
The SFV said concerns about FIFA’s leadership, governance, transparency and decision-making processes remained unresolved.
“Key questions regarding the background, responsibilities and decision-making processes remain unanswered,” SFV president Peter Knäbel said.
“As these have not been convincingly clarified, we cannot justify continuing to support Gianni Infantino’s candidacy.”
FIFA investment proposal sparks backlash
Infantino has faced growing opposition following a proposal, revealed in July, that would have allowed private investors to acquire stakes in a company established under FIFA’s Forward Enterprise initiative.
The proposed commercial structure involved rights connected to major FIFA competitions, including the men’s World Cup and the Club World Cup.
The plan drew criticism from football stakeholders and was subsequently shelved. The Swiss FA’s withdrawal of support follows that controversy and wider questions about how decisions are made within world football’s governing body.
More European federations withdraw backing
Switzerland’s decision follows similar moves by several European football associations, including those of France, England, Wales and Serbia, which have also withdrawn their support for Infantino’s re-election bid.
UEFA has called for changes to FIFA’s governance and has indicated that it intends to present an alternative candidate before the November deadline for nominations.
Infantino, who has been FIFA president since 2016, is seeking another term in office. The presidential election is scheduled for 18 March 2027 in Rabat, Morocco.
The Swiss federation’s announcement adds to the scrutiny surrounding the election, although the withdrawal of its endorsement does not itself prevent Infantino from standing for another term.
