FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been re-elected to lead the world’s richest soccer organization until 2027.
The 52-year-old was unanimously re-elected by delegates from the 211 member federations in Rwanda. The FIFA president has no opponent as his tenure has been marked by a massive wealth expansion, with FIFA now having $4 billion in reserves, thanks to the World Cup in Qatar.
The funds will be shared among the 211 member federations, and more money will come from the expanded 104-game edition in 2026 in North America.
The financial success is the main reason why Infantino has no opponent in this election, despite growing wariness in Europe.
Infantino’s first three-year tenure is considered incomplete, and he could remain at the helm of world football until 2031.
His solid financial record, with an 18% increase in income and a 45% increase in reserves over the 2019-22 cycle compared to the previous one, has allowed FIFA to further increase its subsidies to confederations and federations.
In terms of governance, Infantino’s last mandate was marked by significant reforms in transfers, the introduction of maternity leave for professional women players, and more protective rules of disciplinary procedure for victims of sexual violence.
Infantino’s main projects for the next few years have already been approved, starting with the expansion of the men’s World Cup from 32 to 48 teams from the 2026 edition, shared between the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
He also wants to create a Club World Cup and a Women’s Club World Cup, with 24 teams and billions of dollars in prize money. The FIFA president is looking to add new and bigger competition to the already wealthy organization.
“All those who love me, that I know there are so many. And those who hate me, I know there are a few. I love you all. Of course, today especially,” said Infantino after his re-election.
Infantino’s victory is a significant milestone for FIFA, which has been plagued by corruption scandals for years. The organization hopes that the re-election of Infantino will mark the beginning of a new era of transparency and integrity in football’s governing body.
In conclusion, Infantino’s re-election as FIFA president until 2027 is a testament to his solid financial record and the organization’s ambition to add new and bigger competitions. FIFA is now richer than ever, and Infantino has big plans for the future.
The FIFA president’s mandate has been marked by significant reforms, and he hopes to continue to improve governance in the organization.