UEFA says World Cup boycott could still go ahead as English FA withdraws support for Infantino
By Jahanzaib Saqib | SCN NEWS DESK
ZURICH — Pressure on FIFA President Gianni Infantino intensified on Thursday after UEFA said a proposed boycott of future FIFA World Cup competitions remains a possibility, while the English Football Association (FA) formally withdrew its support for his re-election.
UEFA told Sky News that the "conditions have not been met" to restore confidence in FIFA's leadership despite Infantino's recent apology over the controversy surrounding scripted endorsement letters sent to member associations.
The English FA's decision marks one of the most significant public breaks with Infantino by a major football federation, adding momentum to growing criticism of FIFA's governance ahead of the next presidential election.
Apology fails to calm tensions
Infantino apologized to member associations after reports emerged that FIFA had circulated pre-written letters encouraging national federations to publicly endorse his re-election campaign.
The revelations prompted criticism from several football officials, who argued the governing body should remain institutionally neutral during presidential elections.
Despite the apology, UEFA indicated it remains unconvinced that FIFA has taken sufficient steps to address governance concerns.
Boycott threat remains
UEFA stressed that its previously announced threat to boycott a future FIFA World Cup has not been withdrawn, signaling that Europe's football leadership is maintaining pressure on FIFA.
Although no final decision has been made, officials said confidence in Infantino's leadership has yet to be restored.
A coordinated European boycott would represent one of the biggest challenges in FIFA's modern history, given UEFA's commercial and sporting importance to the World Cup.
Growing pressure on FIFA
The controversy has evolved into a broader debate over transparency, accountability and the independence of FIFA's election process.
With one of the world's most influential football associations withdrawing support and UEFA refusing to soften its position, Infantino faces increasing political pressure as questions grow over his bid for another term.
Why It Matters
The dispute is no longer just about Gianni Infantino's leadership—it has become a test of FIFA's governance. If more national associations join the English FA or UEFA escalates its boycott threat, the controversy could reshape the race for FIFA's presidency and the future of international football.