Six Arab football federations back FIFA president Gianni Infantino

On August 13, 2026, six Arab football federations publicly declared their support for FIFA president Gianni Infantino. This move follows growing pressure and calls for an independent investigation from the UEFA, AFC, and CONCACAF confederations regarding the organization's governance.

The friction stems from Infantino’s proposal to sell a 20% stake in World Cup commercial rights to private investors to raise approximately $4.2 billion. The Arab coalition, which includes Qatar and Morocco, the co-hosts of the 2030 World Cup, stated that they trust his leadership and his dedication to global football development. They argued that the president plays a vital role in fostering cooperation across the Arab world.

While the Arab federations have voiced their full confidence in the Swiss administrator, the controversy over the potential privatization of tournament assets continues to cause significant institutional instability within the governing body of world football. The situation remains fluid as the opposing confederations continue to demand transparency and a thorough review of the proposed financial restructuring.