DUBLIN: The Football Association of Ireland has withdrawn its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s bid for a fourth term, citing serious concerns over governance, transparency and consultation.
The Irish football body confirmed the decision in a letter to FIFA, saying recent developments had raised significant questions about the organisation’s leadership and decision-making processes.
The Irish move comes after the Northern Ireland Football Association backed UEFA’s position on the issue. UEFA, CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation have previously raised concerns over Infantino’s leadership and accused him of undermining trust.
The decision represents another setback for Infantino as he seeks a fourth term as FIFA president.
The Football Association of Wales was the first of the four British and Irish football associations to withdraw its support for Infantino, while the English Football Association has also backed away from its previous support.
The growing opposition from European football bodies could increase pressure on Infantino ahead of the FIFA presidential election
More read, Trump backs FIFA president Infantino amid pressure to remove him
Earlier, US President Donald Trump has publicly backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino, warning that removing him from office would be a “terrible mistake.”
Trump said FIFA should not even consider replacing Infantino, praising him as “fantastic” and crediting his leadership for what he described as the most successful World Cup ever.
“If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again,” Trump said, according to reports.
Infantino is facing growing pressure from several football governing bodies following controversy over a proposal involving private investment in FIFA’s commercial rights.
