Global fan groups launch petition calling for Gianni Infantino to resign

Football supporter groups around the world have launched a petition calling for Gianni Infantino to resign as FIFA president and for the governing body to overhaul its governance. The Guardian reported that the initiative has backing from continental and national fan organisations across all six FIFA confederations.

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The campaign follows controversy over a plan to seek private investment to operate FIFA competitions, including the men's and women's World Cups. Infantino abandoned that proposal amid opposition, according to the Guardian. Three continental confederations had accused him of deception in an open letter over how the plan was developed and presented.

UEFA has also lost confidence in Infantino's leadership and has considered boycotting FIFA events, the report said. Infantino continues to retain significant support in Africa and South America, meaning the petition represents pressure from organised supporters rather than a formal move to remove him from office.

The petition asks supporters to demand both Infantino's departure and structural change at FIFA. Its organisers argue that decisions affecting the future of football should formally involve fans and other major stakeholders, extending the campaign beyond the immediate dispute over the president.

Football Supporters Europe is among the signatories. Its executive director, Ronan Evain, told the Guardian that a change in president would have a positive effect only if accompanied by reform of the office and FIFA's governance. He argued that the concentration of power exposed a system that was not fit for purpose and said alternative models, including rotating presidencies, should be considered.

The dispute adds to the scrutiny surrounding FIFA after the investment plan was withdrawn. However, the petition itself does not determine Infantino's position and the level of institutional support he retains remains relevant to any change in leadership. FIFA was approached for comment by the Guardian, but no response was included in the report.