Italy’s football governing body, the Italian Football Federation, has withdrawn its support for FIFA president Gianni Infantino amid mounting opposition to his leadership and a controversial private investment proposal involving FIFA competitions.
The FIGC announced the decision on Wednesday, saying it was responding to recent initiatives promoted by Infantino concerning the governance and development of international football competitions.
“This decision is intended to clearly and transparently express the FIGC’s position… regarding the recent initiatives promoted by the FIFA president concerning the governance and development of international competitions,” the federation said in a statement.
Infantino has faced increasing calls to step down after abandoning plans to secure private investment in FIFA tournaments, including the World Cup.
Italy’s decision adds to growing European opposition to the FIFA president, with football associations in England, Ireland and Wales also withdrawing their backing as Infantino prepares to seek another term at next year’s FIFA Congress.
UEFA has also threatened to boycott FIFA competitions amid the dispute, further intensifying pressure on the FIFA chief.
FIGC president Giovanni Malago said the federation would continue working with UEFA and other European football associations to promote reforms centred on sporting merit and the interests of supporters.
“We will continue to work alongside UEFA and the other European federations to promote a vision of football based on merit, solidarity, sustainability and the central role of the fans,” Malago said.
The FIGC added that it supports a football model built on dialogue, consultation and shared responsibility.
“We identify with a model of dialogue, listening and shared responsibility which has, to date, enabled football to grow, innovate and, at the same time, defend its founding principles.”
Infantino, 56, became FIFA president in 2016 after succeeding Sepp Blatter.
He previously served as UEFA secretary general and initially enjoyed widespread support from European football associations.
