Several senior officials across the global soccer landscape are convinced that Gianni Infantino will leave the upcoming tournament with his authority reinforced, rather than diminished.
A continent‑wide endorsement
A coalition of three continental bodies — the African, Asian and South American confederations — publicly declared their unanimous backing of the Swiss president at the last FIFA congress, representing more than half of the 211 member associations.
The endorsement comes despite Europe’s 55 votes, a bloc that, while not overtly hostile, does not present a coordinated challenger.
The Balogun episode fades
The episode surrounding Folarin Balogun, the United States men’s national team striker who once navigated a controversial transfer to Europe, has largely dissipated, removing a potential domestic distraction.
Financially, the Oceania Football Confederation and Concacaf’s Caribbean contingent remain heavily dependent on FIFA’s revenue streams, further softening any appetite for opposition.
One key stakeholder summed up the mood: Infantino is expected to emerge from the tournament feeling the love of the vast majority of his electorate, a sentiment that could translate into a smooth path to the 2027 election.