France set to withdraw support for Gianni Infantino before FIFA presidential election

France are set to withdraw their full support for FIFA president Gianni Infantino and formally join a UEFA-backed opposition front before next year’s presidential election, in a move that could significantly alter the contest.

The French Football Federation, led by Philippe Diallo, is expected to confirm its decision on Thursday, unless unforeseen circumstances intervene. The election is scheduled to take place on 18 March in Rabat, Morocco, with Infantino seeking another term despite growing criticism of his leadership.

According to French newspaper L’Equipe, France’s position had not previously been in doubt. However, the federation’s executive committee is now expected to end its backing for Infantino, following concerns over the direction of world football’s governing body and a series of decisions that have caused tension in Europe.

Diallo, who is a member of UEFA’s executive committee as well as president of the French Football Federation, has made clear his intention to distance himself from Infantino. He is understood to share the concerns of dozens of European football associations that have already turned against the FIFA president.

L’Equipe reported that Diallo believes the current FIFA administration does not reflect the values and principles that football is expected to represent.

In a strongly worded statement quoted by the newspaper, Diallo said: “I have already criticised the distribution of World Cup revenues among the national teams because I found it extremely unfair. Many events have also recently moved away from the foundations of the game, such as the cancellation of the red card given to Folarin Balogun at Donald Trump’s request, the proposed expansion from 48 to 64 teams, and certain financial arrangements. This system must undergo a thorough review because it is not compatible with the importance of football.”

Infantino’s decision in mid-summer to sell stakes in the World Cup to private funds controlled by people close to United States president Donald Trump has been a particular source of controversy. The move has intensified opposition to his bid for re-election and contributed to the dispute between FIFA’s leadership and several European associations.

L’Equipe said Diallo’s expected break with Infantino is not solely the result of his own disagreements with the FIFA president. His position on UEFA’s executive committee also plays a significant role, as he would find it difficult to oppose UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin, who is currently making every effort to remove Infantino from the FIFA presidency.

The decision by France, one of Europe’s most influential football nations, is therefore being viewed as a significant development ahead of the vote in Morocco. It follows a broader European challenge to Infantino’s continued leadership and could affect the balance of support before the election takes place.