The Football Association of Ireland [FAI] has formally ended its backing for embattled Fifa president Gianni Infantino, while the Irish Football Association has aligned itself with Uefa’s position.
On Monday, Uefa joined Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation in publishing an open letter that accused Infantino of undermining trust through misleading conduct.
The dispute arose after Infantino attempted to sell part of Fifa’s commercial business to a private investment firm. Although the plan was later dropped, the controversy has put his campaign for a fourth term as world football’s leader at serious risk.
The Welsh FA became the first association among the home nations to withdraw its backing last week, with the FA making the same decision several days later.
The FAI, which oversees football in the Republic of Ireland, confirmed in a letter to Fifa that it had also retracted its support for Infantino. The organisation had previously backed him before the controversy that followed the World Cup.
“After a meeting of the FAI board, members agreed to withdraw the letter of support submitted by the Association earlier this year,” the organisation stated.
“The Association subsequently contacted Fifa in writing to outline the reasons behind its decision.
“While the Association appreciates Fifa’s contribution to Irish football, recent developments have created serious concerns about governance, openness and the absence of meaningful consultation.
“Given the governance problems the FAI has worked to resolve in recent years, it believes it has a special responsibility to promote and maintain the highest standards.”
Northern Ireland’s governing body [the IFA] acknowledged the broader concerns surrounding Infantino within the football community. Although it has not formally withdrawn its backing, it supports Uefa’s position.
“We treat our duties as a member association of Uefa and Fifa with the utmost seriousness,” an IFA representative said.
“We agree with Uefa’s current position and intend to remain constructively involved in discussions concerning the governance of football.
“We recognise the latest developments and the wider unease across the football community. These issues are being assessed carefully, and we will continue working through the appropriate governance bodies and official channels.
“We do not intend to make any additional remarks at this time.”
What do you feel about this post?
Like
Love
Happy
Haha
Sad
