The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has withdrawn its support for Gianni Infantino’s candidacy in the FIFA presidential election scheduled for March 2027, signalling a significant shift in the political landscape of world football.
The decision, according to the Italian federation, is aimed at clearly and transparently expressing its position in alignment with UEFA and its president, Aleksander Čeferin, over recent initiatives promoted by the FIFA President concerning the governance and development of international competitions.
The move places the FIGC firmly alongside UEFA at a time when concerns are growing within sections of European football over the direction of the global game and the increasing debate surrounding the organisation and expansion of international competitions.
FIGC President Giovanni Malagò said Italy would continue to work closely with UEFA and other European football federations in promoting a model that protects the core values of the sport.
“We will continue to work alongside UEFA and other European federations to promote a vision of football based on merit, solidarity, sustainability, and the centrality of fans,” Malagò said.
He added that the Italian federation remains committed to a football governance system built around consultation and collective responsibility.
“We recognize ourselves in a model of dialogue, listening, and shared responsibility that has thus far allowed football to grow, innovate, and simultaneously defend its founding principles.”
The withdrawal of support by one of Europe’s most influential football nations could add a new dimension to the race ahead of the 2027 FIFA presidential election.
Italy has traditionally played a major role in international football and its decision to openly align with UEFA’s position is expected to fuel further discussions over the future governance of the global game, the international match calendar and the relationship between FIFA and continental football bodies.
The development also highlights the widening debate over how international football competitions should be managed and expanded, with European football authorities continuing to push for a structure that they believe balances commercial growth with sporting merit, sustainability and the interests of supporters.
With the FIFA presidential election still months away, the FIGC’s decision could encourage other European federations to publicly define their positions, potentially setting the stage for an intense political contest over the future leadership and direction of world football.
The March 2027 election is now expected to attract even greater attention as football’s major governing bodies and national associations weigh their positions on the future of the sport.
