The Scottish Football Association (SFA) has withdrawn its support for FIFA president Gianni Infantino and will not endorse his re-election, according to SFA chief executive Ian Maxwell.
Máxwell confirmed the SFA's decision as Sebastien Pocognoli was formally unveiled as Scotland's new head coach. The organization has lost confidence in Infantino following his controversial proposal to sell parts of the World Cup to a private investment firm. While Infantino has since abandoned these plans after significant backlash, including opposition from UEFA, the SFA has decided to withhold their vote.
"We can't say we've lost confidence in someone and then even consider re-electing them in due course," Maxwell stated. "So we won't be voting for him when the election comes in early 2027. That's our position."
Máxwell expressed frustration that the success and positive impact of the recent World Cup have been overshadowed by the controversy surrounding Infantino's proposals. He emphasized that the focus should be on the joy the tournament brought to fans and its potential long-term impact on the sport.
"That's been overshadowed by FIFA, by Gianni Infantino and everything that's gone on since then. Therefore, there needs to be change," Maxwell added.
He dismissed suggestions that the SFA's initial hesitation to publicly state its position was influenced by SFA president Mike Mulraney's membership on the FIFA finance committee. Despite Infantino facing pressure, concerns remain about his potential to retain his post. UEFA is reportedly exploring options for a rival candidate, but the future leadership of world football's governing body remains uncertain.
The SFA's concerns about Infantino reportedly predate the recent World Cup commercial deal controversy, stemming back to his decision to award former US president Donald Trump a peace prize and his handling of a red card incident involving US striker Folarin Balogun. Maxwell highlighted the "fundamental breakdown in governance, procedure and protocol" demonstrated by the near-unilateral push of Infantino's commercial plans, which he described as unacceptable and lacking in consultation.