Ex-FIFA official says Infantino ineligible for 2027 bid

Former FIFA governance committee chair Miguel Maduro says Gianni Infantino should be barred from seeking a fourth term in the 2027 presidential election because FIFA’s statutes cap presidents at three terms and do not distinguish between full and shortened terms. Infantino’s first stint, from 2016 to 2019 after Sepp Blatter’s resignation, was treated by FIFA’s council as an incomplete mandate that would not count toward the limit; FairSquare says the basis for that decision was never made public and is urging member associations to challenge Infantino’s eligibility. Maduro recommends asking FIFA’s review committee to rule on the matter and appealing to the Court of Arbitration for Sport if necessary. Infantino’s re-election prospects have also been bolstered by support from Asian football and other confederations, while Maduro argues FIFA’s oversight mechanisms are inadequate to constrain the president.