The German Football Association (DFB) has refused to support Gianni Infantino for a third term as FIFA president, withdrawing its backing amid fallout from the Folarin Balogun red card affair. Bernd Neuendorf, president of the German governing body, has distanced himself from the FIFA chief after the organisation declined to sign a letter endorsing the incumbent’s candidacy.
Background to the dispute
The rift follows the controversial handling of a disciplinary decision involving United States striker Folarin Balogun. The player had been set to miss the USA‘s last-16 match against Belgium at a recent tournament after receiving a red card, but the suspension was overturned following a disputed hearing.
The situation escalated when reports emerged that United States President Donald Trump had telephoned Infantino directly to discuss the decision. This alleged political intervention has prompted criticism from within German football circles, leading Neuendorf to publicly separate the DFB from the FIFA president’s camp.
Infantino’s re-election prospects
Despite the German snub, Infantino remains on course to secure another four-year term in March 2027. Confederations representing Africa, Asia and South America have already pledged their backing for the incumbent ahead of the vote.
The German refusal marks a notable break from several other major footballing regions, though it appears insufficient to derail Infantino’s campaign. The FIFA president first took office in 2016 and secured a second term in 2019.
The affair highlights ongoing tensions between European football authorities and FIFA’s leadership regarding governance and disciplinary transparency, particularly when high-profile political figures become involved in sporting decisions.