Japan Football Association honorary president, Kozo Tashima, has declared his intention to contest the FIFA presidential election, potentially challenging incumbent Gianni Infantino for the leadership of world football.
Tashima, 68, is a member of the FIFA Council and a former international footballer and coach.
His decision to enter the race has received the backing of the JFA, positioning him as another contender ahead of next year’s election.
According to BBC Sport on Thursday, Tashima said his ambition was to promote the principles of integrity, soundness and high moral standards associated with Japanese football.
“I have decided to run for FIFA presidential election in order to convey this philosophy to the world and contribute to a better future for football,” he said.
He added that his experience in football administration would be useful in advancing the development of the global game.
JFA president Tsuneyasu Miyamoto described Tashima’s decision as a significant challenge that would allow him to contribute to international football through his knowledge and experience.
Tashima’s entry into the race comes amid growing scrutiny of Infantino’s leadership following controversy over the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative, which reportedly sought to sell stakes in the commercial interests of the World Cup to private investors.
The proposal was eventually abandoned in July after facing widespread opposition from the football community.
Despite the controversy, Infantino has continued to strengthen his position ahead of the election. Last month, he told BBC Sport that he enjoyed the support of the “vast, vast majority” of world football.
The Asian Football Confederation also formally endorsed his bid for another term after its president, Sheikh Salman, changed his position.
Former Tottenham Hotspur defender Ramon Vega was the first to declare his intention to contest the election in October.
Tashima’s entry, with the backing of the JFA, adds another challenger as the race for FIFA’s presidency gathers momentum.
Candidates seeking to become FIFA president must secure the endorsement of at least five member associations, while the deadline for nominations is November 18.
