Story by Matthew Abbott
The Argentine Football Association have shared a statement in support of FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s premiership over the last decade. That stance is at odds with the Football Association, who are withdrawing support for his re-election to a fourth term much like the Football Association of Wales (FAW).
The Football Associations of Finland, Serbia and Sweden have also done likewise ahead of the 77th FIFA Congress in mid-March. That is when the next presidential election will take place in Morocco.
Denmark and Norway also oppose his re-election. Argentina, however, have now joined Egypt and several others in publicly supporting Infantino.
Lionel Messi and Gianni Infantino shaking hands after the World Cup final© Getty Images
The AFA statement, translated into English from Spanish, reads: “Of our highest consideration, on behalf of the Argentine Football Association (AFA), and its Executive Committee, we address you, dear President, and through your worthy intermediary the FIFA board, to express our support for the management carried out during the last 10 years, which had as its main axes the development of football throughout the world and institutional solidity based on a clear governance model. stable and transparent.
“In this sense, in relation to the recent events that are public knowledge, we must recognise the decision of the Administration to withdraw a project that generated, within the football family and from its inception, many more uncertainties than certainties.
“That is why it is worth highlighting the acceptance of the errors made in this process and the apology expressed in the heartfelt message displayed to the 211 member associations of FIFA. Prioritising governance standards is a fundamental pillar for strengthening good relations between FIFA, its member associations and the confederations.
Gianni Infantino gives a thumbs up© Bradley Collyer/PA Wire
“In the same way, and as we have already expressed, you are leading a management that led to a profound transformation of FIFA, which opened the doors of the organisation to all member associations and confederations, so that with a frank and direct dialogue, we can, together, continue to promote football at all levels and disciplines.
“From our point of view, this transformation was based on a model of transparent governance, respect for statutory structures and the monitoring of democratic procedures, essential principles for the football family to be united, firm and working to continue generating improvements in sports and institutions, which have an impact on a better quality of life for millions of human beings who practice our beloved sport.
“Accordingly, with the upcoming FIFA Congress approaching, the Association that I proudly preside over firmly believes and reaffirms that the way forward is to continue to work under your leadership, so that we can continue to develop better and even more inclusive football.”
The FA’s last public statement was made last weekend regarding the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal being withdrawn by Infantino. They also acknowledged a statement from UEFA welcoming the move.
An FA spokesperson said: “We fully support UEFA’s position. It is time for a full and robust review of FIFA’s leadership and governance to ensure that the global game is run transparently, for the benefit of all 211 member nations and with the long-term stewardship of football at its heart.”
