‘Worried’ UEFA begins search for successor to FIFA president Infantino

European football chiefs, who see Gianni Infantino’s stay as FIFA president as detrimental to football’s health, have started searching for a successor to the Swiss administrator.

Following a 2026 World Cup full of controversies and what the UEFA chiefs see as Infantino’s unhealthy relationship with U.S. President, Donald Trump, they want to remove FIFA boss ‘before he destroys’ the game.

There have been several controversial incidents, with the most notable event coming when FIFA intervened to allow U.S. striker Folarin Balogun to play against Belgium despite his red card in the previous game. There were suggestions that Infantino bowed to pressure from President Donald Trump, with whom his close relationship has been well-publicised and criticised.

Following that and many other incidents on and before the start of the ongoing World Cup,  there have been some calls for Infantino to step down, with England legend Gary Lineker calling his position as head of FIFA ‘untenable.’

Writing for givemesport.com, Hal Fish, reports that the 56-year-old may now struggle to keep hold of his job in the next election.  He said that the UEFA bosses are set to back a candidate to challenge Infantino in the next FIFA presidential election.

In April, the Swiss administrator confirmed he plans on having a third term in charge, and had been hoping to run unopposed.

Already, some European lawmakers are planning to open investigation into Infantino’s dealings at FIFA.

Among candidates the UEFA chiefs are looking to present against Infantino is Legia Warsaw owner Dariusz Mioduski, but some of the European football aristocrats see UEFA President Alexander Ceferin as the most qualified name. But the Slovenian lawyer is said to be willing to continue in his current role instead of going heads to head with Infantino.

Another candidate touted as possible challenger for the FIFA position is PSG President Nasser Al-Khelaifi. But like Ceferin, Al-Khelaifi is said to have no such ambition to stand for office.