On Monday, the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) officially withdrew its support for under‑fire FIFA president Gianni Infantino, while the Irish Football Association (IFA) confirmed it is backing UEFA’s stance. UEFA signed an open letter with Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation, accusing Infantino of breaking trust “through deception.” It follows an attempt by Infantino to sell a stake in FIFA’s commercial operations to a private investment company – a bid that has since been abandoned and which has put his campaign for a fourth term in peril. The Welsh FA became the first home nation to withdraw support, with the FAI following days later.

The FAI confirmed it had rescinded the letter of support it had sent earlier this year and has written to FIFA explaining its reasoning. The Association says it remains grateful for FIFA’s support of Irish football, but recent events have raised significant concerns regarding governance, transparency and the lack of meaningful consultation. The IFA noted the wider concerns about Infantino, has not formally withdrawn support, but is backing UEFA’s position and will continue to engage constructively on governance matters.

The decision came after an FAI board meeting, where the Association reviewed the circumstances and concluded that it needed to act to uphold best practice in football governance. The IFA spokesperson emphasized its responsibility as a member of both UEFA and FIFA, noting that it will continueાની to engage through appropriate governance structures and channels. At this stage, no further comment will be made.

The move reflects growing unease within the football community over Infantino’s conduct and the broader governance challenges facing the sport's governing bodies.