CONMEBOL has become the first governing body to publicly support Gianni Infantino’s re-election as president of FIFA, signaling early momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The South American confederation’s council unanimously endorsed Infantino for another four-year term, despite the 56-year-old not yet formally declaring his candidacy. Given his decade-long consolidation of power within FIFA, a renewed bid is widely expected.
Infantino, who has been re-elected unopposed in both 2019 and 2023, has overseen a period of structural and commercial transformation at FIFA. Under his leadership, the men’s FIFA World Cup expanded from 32 to 48 teams—set to debut in 2026—while discussions have also emerged Øول a potential one-off expansion to 64 teams for the 2030 centennial edition.
That proposal, driven in part by South American stakeholders, reflects broader regional ambitions. The 2030 World Cup—already set to span three continents and six countries, including Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay for opening matches—has reignited concerns about the continent’s limited hosting opportunities in recent decades.
CONMEBOL’s backing also highlights a shift in its relationship with FIFA leadership. Earlier in Infantino’s tenure, the confederation aligned with UEFA in opposing proposals such as a biennial World Cup. Now, its public endorsement suggests stronger institutional alignment.
Despite financial growth—FIFA is projecting up to $11 billion in revenue from the 2026 World Cup cycle—Infantino’s presidency has not been without controversy. Governance questions, political proximity, and tensions with stakeholders including leagues and player unions continue to shape perceptions of his leadership.
Still, with each of FIFA’s 211 member associations holding a vote, early backing from a continental confederation represents a significant strategic advantage.