FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing increasing opposition ahead of the March 2027 presidential election following a controversial plan to sell stakes in FIFA competitions for $4.2 billion, called FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE). The plan, developed alongside new Lakers owner Joshua Kushner, was criticized for its lack of transparency and ultimately failed after being leaked, prompting internal dissent. FIFA’s Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour, a vocal critic of the plan, was dismissed on August 17, further intensifying calls for Infantino’s resignation from various soccer officials and associations worldwide.

Several key soccer confederations and national associations have publicly opposed Infantino’s leadership due to the fallout from the FFE proposal. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC), alongside UEFA and CONCACAF leaders, signed a letter accusing Infantino of deception related to the plan. UEFA has gone so far as to plan a boycott of FIFA competitions until guarantees are made against repeat governance failures. Notably, many European nations including England, Germany, Norway, and others have withdrawn their support, reflecting a growing rift in what was once a strong backing for Infantino.

Despite mounting pressure, Infantino still holds significant support from several quarters, particularly from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and smaller nations in Asia and Africa, who have benefited financially from the expanded 48-team World Cup format. CAF officially endorsed Infantino in early August, though some internal abstentions were reported. Many countries in Oceania and South America have not publicly opposed him, creating a complex landscape where voting power is divided across FIFA's 210 member associations.

Infantino looks poised to run unopposed in the upcoming elections, but with the anti-Infantino faction needing 106 votes to force a change, the contest remains uncertain. The dismissal of Lamour and increasing public dissent suggest that the FIFA presidency will be closely watched as stakeholders in global soccer grapple with governance, transparency, and the future financial strategy of the sport. As the March vote approaches, Infantino’s ability to maintain support amid this fracturing will be critical to the continuity of his long-standing tenure.