Mexico has publicly backed FIFA president Gianni Infantino, adding to the support he receives from Africa and South America amid a growing push to remove him led by UEFA, AFC, and Concacaf. Despite Concacaf's call for his removal, Mexico, as a member, has aligned with Infantino, complicating the opposition's attempt to initiate a vote of no confidence. The Mexican Football Federation (FMF) has clearly declared its support, emphasizing institutional integrity and unity.
The FMF issued a strong statement reaffirming its commitment to FIFA's institutional structure and procedures. 'The FMF will neither recognize nor approve any process convened outside of this institutionality,' it said, aligning with Infantino's call for unity in football development. The federation stressed that football’s value lies in respecting governance and institutional strength.
The FMF rejected any efforts to remove Infantino through unofficial means, framing it as a matter of principle over political alignment. It emphasized that football’s best defense is through institutional strength and adherence to established governance.
Collectively, UEFA, AFC, and Concacaf control 136 of the 211 votes in FIFA, theoretically enough to challenge Infantino's re-election. However, the support from African, South American, and select Asian nations, including Qatar and Kuwait, now tilts in his favor. Mexico’s backing further strengthens Infantino’s position against the anti-Infantino coalition.
Infantino has not relented despite criticism over his secretive plan to commercialize a spin-off company for World Cup and tournament rights. The proposal has drawn sharp backlash, especially for its alleged favoritism to investors linked to his ally Donald Trump. Following a crisis meeting in Morocco, Infantino apologized for lacking transparency and insisted he will remain in office.
The FMF and Asian nations like Qatar and Kuwait have joined Infantino in backing his leadership, arguing it ensures institutional stability and progress. The African Football Confederation (CAF) has also reaffirmed its support, saying it 'unanimously reconfirmed its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino.' With South America and Oceania also reportedly on his side, Infantino appears to have secured enough backing to continue his leadership.