FIFA in Crisis: Montagliani Eyed as UEFA-Backed Successor to Infantino

Gianni Infantino and Victor Montagliani pictured together at the 2026 World Cup | Credit - Profimedia

World Cup plan backlash leaves Infantino fighting for FIFA future. Montagliani eyed to topple Infantino in FIFA leadership shakeup.

CONCACAF’s Montagliani linked to FIFA power challenge...

CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani is reportedly being positioned as a candidate to replace FIFA president Gianni Infantino, with backing from UEFA.

UEFA publicly praised this week’s withdrawal of the controversial World Cup proposals, calling it a “victory for the whole game.”

Growing Pressure On Infantino Amid FIFA Backlash

The proposal had support from CONCACAF and the AFC, a signal that federations worldwide rejected Infantino’s plan to open the World Cup to private investment.

With his reputation further damaged, Infantino is facing mounting calls to resign and could be forced into a vote of no confidence over the failed plans.

As speculation grows that he may step down, journalist Ben Jacobs reports a potential replacement has already emerged.

“Victor Montagliani would draw big support from UEFA if he stands. Sources believe the Canadian is keen knowing he may start with up to 96 votes from Concacaf and UEFA if the federations align. UEFA want a blanket withdraw of written Infantino support, as revealed on @talkSPORT.”

Victor Montagliani is emerging as a contender to rival/replace Gianni Infantino, as reported on @talkSPORT during the World Cup and advanced further today by @PeteHall86.

Montagliani has been primarily focused on Concacaf re-election, but it is well known in FIFA circles that… pic.twitter.com/66zQphtGJb

— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) July 31, 2026

Al-Khelaifi Rules Out FIFA Run

Some senior figures in European football had pushed for PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi to enter the race. A spokesperson shut that down, saying he has “absolutely no ambition, no intention and no interest” in the FIFA presidency.

Even if he survives a no-confidence vote, Infantino would still need to defeat challengers and secure a fourth term at the FIFA Congress in March.