Gianni Infantino has suffered another setback after the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) withdrew its backing for his re-election as FIFA president.
The decision to retract the letter of support, initially provided earlier this year, came following a board meeting. Since then, the association has sent a letter to FIFA outlining its reasons, according to RTÉ.
Infantino has faced mounting pressure since July 28, when a controversial plan was revealed to sell shares in the company that will manage the FIFA World Cup to private investors.
The fallout has sparked calls for the FIFA president’s resignation. Football associations across Europe, the Americas, and Asia have threatened to boycott FIFA tournaments, accusing Infantino of neglecting his duties and placing himself “above the collective entrusted with his authority.”
In its statement, the Football Association of Ireland said: “The Association appreciates the support FIFA provides to Irish football. However, recent developments have raised serious concerns regarding governance, transparency, and the lack of meaningful consultation.
Given the governance challenges the FAI has faced in recent years, the Association feels a particular responsibility to uphold and promote best practices.”
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