France withdraws support for Infantino's FIFA re-election bid

French Football Federation President Philippe Diallo with Gianni Infantino.

PARIS, Sept 10: French Football Federation President Philippe Diallo said that France will withdraw its support for Gianni Infantino's bid for re-election as FIFA president in 2027.

Infantino has come under increasing pressure after abandoning in July a proposal to sell a 20 percent stake in FIFA competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors. The plan faced strong opposition from several continental confederations.

Several European football associations, including those of England and Italy, have also withdrawn their support for Infantino following the collapse of the proposal.

UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and CONCACAF have called for a change in FIFA leadership and are seeking a credible alternative ahead of next year's election.

Infantino still retains the backing of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

The FIFA presidential election is scheduled to take place in Rabat on March 18, 2027.