Montagliani’s Concacaf plans strengthen Infantino’s re-election bid

Gianni Infantino’s prospects of winning a fourth term as FIFA president have improved after Victor Montagliani indicated he will seek to remain in charge of Concacaf. The Canadian, 61, had been viewed as a possible challenger following the backlash over Infantino’s abandoned proposal to sell World Cup stakes to private investors, but he had never formally declared his intentions.

Montagliani’s decision means he is not expected to oppose Infantino in the presidential election scheduled for March. The rebellion led by UEFA must now find a candidate capable of uniting its supporters before the 18 November deadline. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin, meanwhile, has confirmed he will run for a fourth term after previously saying in February 2024 that he would step aside.

UEFA and 54 of its 55 national associations, with Azerbaijan the exception, also backed a 14-point programme for FIFA reform. The proposals would reduce the president’s direct authority, strengthen the independence of ethics and disciplinary oversight, and prohibit FIFA resources from being used for personal or electoral purposes. UEFA also called for at least $10m (£7.5m) in additional funding for each of FIFA’s 211 member associations. Ramon Vega says he plans to run, but it remains uncertain whether he can secure the five endorsements needed for the ballot.

ColdMath take

Montagliani’s expected decision removes one of the clearest potential challengers to Infantino. UEFA’s search for a unified alternative remains unresolved ahead of 18 November.

Ceferin’s UEFA campaign will focus on reform and unity, while his own candidacy is not positioned as a direct challenge to Infantino.