OMM Newsroom
FIFA President Gianni Infantino gave an interview to BBC Sport during the U-15 World Cup and festival in Baku. Asked whether he might resign after the controversy surrounding the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) project, he said his position was secure.
Infantino said he was elected by FIFA’s 211 member associations, and they would decide whom they wanted to lead the organization. He said he had received support from the Asian Football Confederation in Tokyo and from African football associations during a visit to Cabo Verde.
The FIFA president said differences of opinion on various issues were normal, but dialogue must continue and the organization must move forward. The FFE project was intended to bring private investors into the commercial rights of FIFA competitions, but the initiative was later abandoned. Infantino apologized to FIFA Council members for shortcomings in the information and consultation process. UEFA has called for key documents and explanations to be submitted by November 2.
Infantino highlighted the importance of Baku hosting the first U-15 World Cup, saying it could be the first step toward the senior World Cup for future footballers. The tournament runs from October 24 to 30 and features teams from 189 national associations. Matches are played in an eight-a-side format, with two 20-minute halves. The main venue is the Hovsan Olympic Sports Complex, while the opening ceremony is being held at Baku Crystal Hall.
The next FIFA presidential election is scheduled for March 2027. Candidates must announce their intention to run by November 18. Infantino, who has led the organization since 2016, plans to seek re-election.
