**Italy Withdraws Support for Infantino Amid Growing Pressure, Cannavaro Offers Backing**
*Published On 27 Aug 2026*
In a significant shift within the football community, Italy's football federation (FIGC) has officially withdrawn its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This decision follows Infantino's controversial attempt to secure private investment in the World Cup, which has faced widespread criticism and ultimately failed.
The FIGC's statement emphasized the need for transparency and clarity regarding its position on Infantino's recent initiatives aimed at the governance and development of international competitions. FIGC President Giovanni Malago articulated the federation's commitment to working alongside UEFA and other European federations to promote a vision of football that prioritizes merit, solidarity, sustainability, and the involvement of fans.
This move by the FIGC aligns with a broader trend, as several European national associations—including those from England, Ireland, and Wales—have also rescinded their backing for Infantino. The FIFA president is currently seeking re-election at the upcoming FIFA Congress, but mounting pressure from various quarters has led to calls for him to step down.
Infantino's plan to attract private investment into FIFA tournaments, including the World Cup, was met with significant backlash, prompting many to question his leadership. The FIGC's withdrawal of support is seen as a clear indication of the discontent brewing within European football regarding Infantino's strategies.
Despite the FIGC's stance, Infantino has garnered support from notable figures in the football world. Fabio Cannavaro, Italy's World Cup-winning captain, has publicly backed the FIFA president. Cannavaro, who is currently coaching the Uzbekistan national team, took to social media to express his belief that Infantino has made substantial contributions to the sport over the past decade. He stated, "Over the last ten years, world football has improved… Infantino has done a great job… Not acknowledging that would be intellectually dishonest."
Cannavaro's endorsement comes alongside similar sentiments from other former football stars, including Brazilian legends Cafu and Roberto Carlos, as well as Argentine players Javier Zanetti and Esteban Cambiasso. These players have praised Infantino's efforts to enhance player representation in football, a significant shift from previous practices.
Cafu, a two-time World Cup champion, highlighted the positive changes in football under Infantino's leadership, noting that players have once again taken center stage. This contrasting support from former players illustrates the divided opinions regarding Infantino's presidency.
In a related development, UEFA has decided to formally withdraw its threat to boycott FIFA competitions after receiving assurances that Infantino's failed sell-off plan will not be revisited. This decision reflects a cautious optimism within UEFA, which oversees European football, as they navigate the complexities of their relationship with FIFA.
As the landscape of international football governance continues to evolve, Infantino's future remains uncertain. The upcoming FIFA Congress will be a critical juncture, as he seeks re-election amid both support and dissent from various factions within the football community. The decisions made in the coming months will likely shape the direction of FIFA and its leadership for years to come.