London, Aug 11 (V7N)- FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing growing opposition after the failed commercial initiative, with three major continental football confederations reportedly discussing the possibility of organizing alternative tournaments across three continents.
According to a report by British newspaper The Telegraph, UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and CONCACAF have begun discussions on possible alternative competitions if the threat of boycotting FIFA events materializes.
UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin, AFC President Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa and CONCACAF President Victor Montagliani reportedly confirmed the discussions in a joint statement. However, the proposed alternative tournaments remain at an early stage, with their format and structure yet to be determined.
The three football leaders have also accused Infantino of misconduct and called for an independent and impartial investigation into the now-cancelled share sale process linked to FIFA's commercial plans.
Their letter reportedly stressed that the leadership of world football cannot be treated as anyone's personal property. Football analysts have interpreted the statement as potentially creating an opportunity for Infantino to step down with dignity.
However, Infantino appears determined to continue his leadership of FIFA. He is preparing to seek re-election at the FIFA Congress in Morocco next March.
A candidate needs 106 of FIFA's 211 votes to secure victory. The three confederations involved in the joint position represent a combined 143 member associations, making their opposition potentially significant for Infantino's re-election prospects.
Despite the growing resistance, Infantino continues to have strong supporters. The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have backed the FIFA president.
Argentina, Mexico, Paraguay, Qatar and Kuwait have also reportedly expressed personal support for Infantino.
The dispute has intensified following criticism of FIFA's now-abandoned commercial proposal and broader concerns over the organization's leadership, governance and decision-making process.
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