Gianni Infantino FIFA re-election odds boosted as Aleksander Čeferin makes UEFA call

Gianni Infantino’s chances of securing re-election as FIFA president next year received a boost after his main rival, Aleksander Čeferin, opted not to challenge him. Čeferin has been Infantino’s most vocal critic, particularly since controversy over attempts to sell stakes in tournaments, including the World Cup. Despite UEFA’s pressure for leadership change at FIFA, it emerged on Thursday that Čeferin will seek a fourth term as UEFA president in April after being urged by member associations—reversing his 2024 stance that he would not run again. Infantino has also worked to rally support, including meetings with African FA leaders in Cape Verde. Prospective candidates must declare by November 18, though widespread backing is expected to be required to unseat him.