The nomination period for the **FIFA presidency** closed on Monday, ahead of the election scheduled for **February 26, 2016**. Eight candidates have secured the minimum five endorsements needed to run, including three Africans. Here’s a breakdown:
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### **1. Michel Platini (France)**
* Former UEFA President and legendary France player.
* Considered the favorite due to his political experience in football and leadership at UEFA.
* Candidacy suspended due to a **€1.8 million payment controversy** investigated by FIFA’s Ethics Committee. His ability to run will depend on the resolution of these sanctions.
### **2. Gianni Infantino (Switzerland)**
* UEFA General Secretary and close associate of Platini.
* A lawyer fluent in four languages, with extensive experience in football administration.
* Seen as a credible alternative should Platini be ineligible.
### **3. Sheikh Salman (Bahrain)**
* President of the Asian Football Confederation since 2013 and FIFA Vice-President.
* Accused by human rights organizations of involvement in athlete mistreatment in 2011.
* Candidacy may face scrutiny in Europe due to these allegations.
### **4. Tokyo Sexwale (South Africa)**
* Former anti-apartheid activist and businessman, ex-government official.
* Emphasizes integrity and FIFA renewal; involved in the 2010 World Cup organizing committee.
* Received support from five federations to qualify as a candidate.
### **5. Prince Ali bin Al Hussein (Jordan)**
* Jordanian royal and President of the Jordanian Football Association.
* Ran against Blatter in 2015, securing 73 votes.
* Vice-President of the Asian Football Confederation; faces challenges from a crowded candidate field.
### **6. Jérôme Champagne (France)**
* Former FIFA diplomat and advisor to Sepp Blatter (1998–2002).
* Advocates for transparency and systemic overhaul but may struggle to distance himself from past FIFA leadership.
* Received endorsements from **eight federations across three continents**.
### **7. David Nakhid (Trinidad & Tobago)**
* Former national team captain (35 caps, 8 goals).
* Lesser-known figure with limited political influence in FIFA.
* Endorsed by five federations; considered a long-shot candidate.
### **8. Musa Bility (Liberia)**
* President of the Liberian Football Association since 2010.
* Vocal opponent of Blatter and current FIFA leadership.
* Has faced friction with CAF President Issa Hayatou, which could complicate his campaign.
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The **FIFA Electoral Committee** will now verify the validity of each candidacy before the election campaign begins.
