The Caribbean Football Union announced its support for Gianni Infantino's re-election as FIFA president on 7 November 2026. The organization comprises 31 member countries, 25 of which hold voting rights within the global governing body.
"The Caribbean Football Union confirms that it has reached its collective position through consultation with its member associations," the organization stated. "In the same spirit, the Union continues to advocate for enhanced transparency, good governance, and fundamental reforms within the football family." This endorsement arrives as the Caribbean Football Union formalizes its stance ahead of the upcoming leadership vote. The collective decision follows internal discussions regarding the future direction of FIFA and the ongoing professional requirements of the regional member associations.
Growing Support for Infantino
The Asian Football Confederation declared its support for Gianni Infantino in October 2026. This organization represents 47 member associations within the global football structure. The announcement aligns the Asian body with the recent position adopted by the Caribbean Football Union regarding the FIFA presidency. Member associations across Asia participated in the internal processes that led to this formal backing of the incumbent leader. Similar to the regional consultation conducted in the Caribbean, the Asian Football Confederation maintains its focus on the strategic direction of FIFA. Both regional organizations have now finalized their public stances ahead of the leadership vote. These collective endorsements mark a consolidation of support for Gianni Infantino across the two respective confederations during the current election cycle.
Election Timeline and Contenders
FIFA set the deadline for submitting official presidential nominations for the upcoming election as 18 November 2026. Potential candidates must finalize their documentation by this date to participate in the contest for the leadership of the global football governing body.
Kozo Tashima, a member of the FIFA Council, declared his intention to challenge for the presidency on 5 November 2026. His entry into the race introduces a formal alternative to the incumbent during the current election cycle.
Emilio García Silvero intends to step down from his role as FIFA's Chief Legal and Compliance Officer following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. He served in this capacity for eight years. A FIFA official statement noted, "After eight years of leading the Legal and Compliance division, Emilio García Silvero has expressed his desire to start a new chapter in his professional career and return to Spain."
During his tenure, the executive managed operations across international offices. A FIFA official statement further explained, "Since joining FIFA at the 2018 World Cup, Emilio has effectively contributed to the development and modernization of the regulatory framework governing international football. As an executive, he led a team of professionals in the Zurich and Miami offices, where he oversaw major projects, regulatory reforms, educational initiatives, and programs aimed at enhancing transparency, legal certainty, and access to knowledge of football rules and regulations."