Kozo Tashima challenges Gianni Infantino with pledge to reform FIFA

Kozo Tashima has announced his candidacy to replace FIFA president Gianni Infantino, accusing football’s world governing body of allowing political influence to undermine its principles.

The 68-year-old former honorary president of the Japan Football Association (JFA) declared his intention to stand against Infantino earlier this week. In an interview with the BBC, Tashima said he wanted to bring an end to what he described as behind-the-scenes political manoeuvring within FIFA.

Tashima pointed to the decision to alter Folarin Balogun’s suspension during the last World Cup, when the United States forward was allowed to play after a telephone call from Donald Trump.

“I have never seen a player allowed to play after a justified red card,” Tashima said.

“Something like that must never happen again in the world of football.”

However, he said the issue was not only the decision itself, but also Infantino’s failure to explain publicly how it had come about.

“What concerns me most is that Infantino has never addressed the matter since,” Tashima said.

“He has not explained how it happened or how the decision was reached. Most of the questions remain unanswered by president Infantino.

“I attach great importance to values such as sincerity, integrity and fair play.”

Tashima said his campaign would focus on protecting the game and improving the way FIFA is run.

“I want to make sure that football is protected and that everyone can enjoy it,” he said. “We need to reform the system within FIFA and ensure good governance. Football must become the priority again.”

The Japanese administrator acknowledged that he faces a difficult contest against Infantino, who he accepts has substantial support.

Despite describing himself as “confident”, Tashima admitted that his campaign would have fewer resources than that of the incumbent FIFA president.

“I know Infantino has many supporters,” he said. “I am alone and my budget is limited, but that does not matter.

“I have to challenge him with my ideas, my philosophy and my samurai mentality. The reaction has been positive so far.”