Infantino to face tough challenge: Ceferin

Infantino to face tough challenge: Ceferin

Sports Desk
Sports Desk

Published: 01:38 24 August 2026

 

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has ruled out running for the upcoming FIFA presidency. However, he has indicated that current FIFA President Gianni Infantino may face tough competition in next year's elections.

Infantino has come under increasing criticism over his controversial plan to sell parts of the World Cup to private investors. Since then, questions have been raised about the leadership of the FIFA president in various quarters. UEFA President Ceferin has also been discussed as a possible rival to Infantino, but he himself has ruled out that possibility.

Ceferin said that he is not interested in running for the FIFA presidency. He also mentioned two reasons behind this. First, he loves working with UEFA. Second, he wants to give himself time to enjoy other aspects of life. According to him, not showing interest in the FIFA presidency will also increase his credibility.

However, Ceferin believes that a new challenger could emerge for Infantino in the next FIFA election in March. According to him, Infantino has lost support not only in political circles, but also among a section of fans, players and coaches. As a result, if a new candidate stands in the election, the current FIFA president may have to face a tough challenge.

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