Could Nasser Al-Khelaïfi become Gianni Infantino’s main challenger for the FIFA presidency? According to talkSPORT, several UEFA member federations are searching for a figure influential enough to prevent the Italian-Swiss official from securing another uncontested re-election.
Paris Saint-Germain could potentially lose its long-serving president. In charge of the French club since the arrival of Qatar Sports Investments in 2011, Nasser Al-Khelaïfi has reportedly emerged as one of the leading names in discussions surrounding the next FIFA presidential election. Meanwhile, Gianni Infantino has already confirmed his intention to seek another term, although some European federations are concerned about the prospect of him running without serious opposition.
European Federations Seek a Strong Challenger
Al-Khelaïfi is reportedly viewed as one of the most credible candidates thanks to his influence across European football. In addition to leading PSG, he chairs European Club Association (formerly known as the European Club Association) and serves on UEFA’s Executive Committee. His international profile, network, and leadership experience have reportedly impressed several football officials looking for a candidate capable of mounting a genuine campaign against Infantino.
Despite this growing support, talkSPORT reports that Al-Khelaïfi currently has no intention of running for FIFA president. His backers would therefore need to convince him to reconsider, while the current expectation is that he will remain focused on his role at PSG and his responsibilities within European football. UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin is also said to have little interest in entering the race despite recent tensions between UEFA and FIFA.
European football’s search for an alternative candidate has reportedly intensified following recent controversies involving FIFA. Other names under consideration include Legia Warsaw owner Dariusz Mioduski, while outside Europe, Concacaf president Victor Montagliani and CAF president Patrice Motsepe have also been mentioned. However, neither is believed to be ready to challenge Infantino at this stage. FIFA’s next presidential election is scheduled for the 2027 Congress, leaving time to see whether Al-Khelaïfi ultimately decides to become Europe’s candidate or whether Infantino will once again face no major opposition.
