Wales has made history by becoming the first nation to withdraw its support for Gianni Infantino's re-election as FIFA President. This decision was announced by the Welsh FA shortly after midnight on Monday, following Infantino's controversial plans to sell off the World Cup, which have since been abandoned.

Welsh FA's Statement

In a statement provided to Sky News, the Welsh FA declared, “hereby confirms its withdrawal of support for the candidature of Mr Gianni Infantino, for re-election as FIFA President for the 2027-2031 term.” The FA criticized Infantino's leadership, citing “recent failures in good governance, processes, leadership, values, stakeholder management, communications and sound judgement.” They emphasized that Infantino has lost their confidence to lead world football, stating, “Failing to put the best interests of football first is a failure we cannot accept.”

Growing Pressure on Infantino

Wales' decision is significant as it holds one of the eight votes on the International Football Association Board (IFAB), which is responsible for setting the Laws of the Game. Other football associations are expected to follow Wales in pressuring Infantino to resign. Notably, UEFA also withdrew its support for Infantino on Saturday, labeling the arrangement a “shabby back-room deal” and issuing an ultimatum for him to either resign or face a vote of no confidence.

Reports suggest that if Infantino does not step down, all 55 UEFA member nations are prepared to vote him out, with the ability to initiate such a vote with just 43 federations. UEFA has also threatened to boycott future FIFA tournaments if Infantino's plans proceed, following urgent crisis talks among its members.

Infantino's proposal involved handing over control of the World Cup to a consortium led by Josh Kushner, which faced strong opposition from UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and Concacaf. Meanwhile, South America's Conmebol has requested more information on the matter, and discussions are set to take place this week among Africa and Oceania's governing bodies.

Despite the backlash, Infantino reaffirmed his commitment to his role on Friday night, acknowledging that his initiative had “created divisions” within the football community.