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FIFA accused of pressuring members over Infantino vote

·1 min read·2 outlets

The short version

FIFA faces allegations of pressuring member federations ahead of a vote on Gianni Infantino's presidency. A former vice president accused the body of withholding prize money to influence votes. Most African countries remain undecided on the matter.

Prince Ali, former FIFA vice president and head of the Jordan Football Association, alleged that FIFA is 'blackmailing' members to back Gianni Infantino's re-election bid.1 Prince Ali stated that his federation has not received prize money owed for finishing runners-up in the FIFA Arab Cup held in Qatar in December 2025.1 Prince Ali did not specify whether the withheld funds were directly tied to FIFA's vote on Infantino's presidency.1

The African Football Confederation has not yet taken an official stance on whether to support Infantino's re-election.2 Reports indicate that key African footballing nations are divided on the issue of backing Infantino for a third term.2

“FIFA is blackmailing members to back Infantino”
Prince Ali, former FIFA vice president and head of the Jordan Football Association1

Why it matters

  • Gianni Infantino has served as FIFA president since 2016 and is seeking re-election for a third term in 2026.2

  • The FIFA Arab Cup is a biennial football tournament organized by FIFA for national teams from the Arab world.1

This account was written from the 2 reports listed below, filed by 2 independent outlets, and checked against them line by line. It is not a copy of any one of them. Spotted an error? Tell us.

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2 source reports

2 outlets · 2 countries · citation numbers match the article

  1. 1

    Times of India · IN

    FIFA 'blackmailing' members to back Infantino, alleges former vice president

    Aug 5, 2026

  2. 2

    BBC News · GB

    Does Africa still back Infantino as Fifa president?

    Aug 6, 2026

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