League: FIFA World Cup Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Scores & Results

UEFA’s preferred FIFA Presidential candidate likely will not run

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 2, 2026, 8:00 AM

Last updated Aug 2, 2026

UEFA’s preferred FIFA Presidential candidate likely will not run

Summary

UEFA has reportedly identified Nasser Al-Khelaifi as a potential candidate to replace Gianni Infantino as FIFA President, though his candidacy is unlikely to materialize. Al-Khelaifi's status as the chairman of beIN Media Group and Qatar Sports Investments, along with Qatar FA's support for Infantino, complicates this scenario. Infantino has faced backlash over his failed attempts to sell private stakes in the FIFA World Cup, leading UEFA to consider a no-confidence motion against him ahead of the March 2027 elections. However, Infantino retains strong support among FIFA member states, casting doubt on potential replacements.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Nasser Al-Khelaifi seen as UEFA's preferred FIFA President candidate.
•Qatar FA's support for Infantino diminishes Al-Khelaifi's chances.
•Infantino faces criticism over failed privatization plans.
•UEFA could initiate a no-confidence motion before 2027 elections.
•Strong support for Infantino from various FIFA member states.

Latest Updates

8:00 AMYahoo Sports — Why UEFA’s preferred candidate for FIFA President to replace Gianni Infantino won’t run

What they're saying

"
UEFA was reportedly eyeing Qatar’s Nasser Al-Khelaifi to be their preferred potential replacement for Gianni Infantino as FIFA President, but it likely won’t happen. The house Infantino built at FIFA appears to be crumbling after his failed attempt at selling private stakes in the FIFA World Cup led to condemnation from multiple major confederations, mainly UEFA.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Tottenham Hotspur Paris Saint-Germain FIFA World Cup Soccer