FIFA President Gianni Infantino has secured public backing from six Arab national football associations as he navigates a leadership crisis within the world governing body.
The federations of Qatar, Morocco, Egypt, Mauritania, Lebanon and Sudan issued a joint statement expressing support for Infantino's continued leadership. Qatar's backing came through Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, while Morocco's support was announced by Fouzi Lekjaa. Egypt's Hany Abo Rida, Mauritania's Ahmed Yahya, and representatives from Lebanon and Sudan also signed the statement.
Four of the six associations—Qatar, Egypt, Morocco and Mauritania—hold seats on FIFA's Council, giving their endorsement additional institutional weight within the organization's governance structure.
In their statement, the Arab federations highlighted the role of football in uniting people and expressed "full backing" for Infantino, reaffirming their confidence in his leadership of the organization.
Infantino is seeking re-election next year but faces significant opposition. Three major continental confederations—UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and CONCACAF—have called for his resignation following his failed attempt to bring private investment into FIFA competitions, including the World Cup.
The private investment plan, which Infantino had pursued, was abandoned after the confederations' public revolt against the proposal. The failed initiative has created a substantial rift within FIFA's leadership structure, with major football regions now divided over Infantino's future.
The Arab federations' statement represents a counterweight to the opposition from Europe, Asia and North America. Morocco is set to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside other nations, while Qatar hosted the 2022 World Cup, giving both countries significant stakes in FIFA's direction and governance decisions.
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