The French Football Federation (FFF) has withdrawn its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino's re-election bid, saying trust in the head of world football's governing body has been broken.
The decision was taken unanimously by the French Football Federation's executive committee and announced on Thursday by FFF President Philippe Diallo.
"The trust placed in the FIFA president has been broken," Diallo told newsmen, adding that France's vision for how world football should be managed no longer corresponds with the current direction of FIFA.
France had initially supported Infantino's candidacy at the end of June, when he was the only declared candidate for the FIFA presidency.
However, Diallo said developments in recent weeks had changed the situation, leading the federation to withdraw its backing.
The growing tension surrounding Infantino's leadership followed a controversial proposal to sell a 20% stake in FIFA competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors.
The proposal faced strong opposition from several of football's regional confederations and was eventually abandoned.
According to Reuters, French officials were particularly concerned about how the proposal emerged, with Diallo saying member federations were not properly consulted or adequately informed.
The controversy raised fresh questions about FIFA's governance and decision-making processes.
"The conditions for our support for his candidacy were no longer there," Diallo said.
France is not alone in reconsidering its position as several European football federations, including England and Italy among others have also withdrawn their backing for Infantino following the collapse of the controversial investment proposal.
UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation and North America's CONCACAF have been calling for changes within FIFA and are discussing possible alternatives ahead of next year's election, Dafy World knows.
Diallo said the focus should not only be on criticising the current FIFA leadership but also on proposing reforms and identifying a candidate capable of challenging Infantino.
"It is not enough simply to criticise if you want things to move forward. You also have to make proposals," he said.
Despite the growing opposition, Gianni Infantino remains in a strong position ahead of the FIFA presidential election.
According to a separate Reuters report, Infantino can still count on enough support from FIFA member associations to make him the favourite for re-election.
He continues to enjoy significant backing from Africa's CAF and South America's CONMEBOL, while his long-standing relationships with football associations around the world are also expected to play a major role.
Dafy World understands that some opponents who previously believed Infantino's position was in serious danger are now reconsidering their strategy, with greater focus being placed on reducing presidential powers and pushing for governance reforms.
The FIFA presidential election is scheduled to take place in Rabat, Morocco, on March 18, 2027. The deadline for candidates to submit their nominations is November 18, 2026.
France's decision to withdraw its support represents another significant setback for Infantino as opposition to his leadership grows.
However, with no major challenger yet emerging and Infantino retaining strong support from several influential football blocs, the FIFA president remains the favourite to retain his position.
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