The French Football Federation (FFF) has begun the process of finding a candidate who could challenge Gianni Infantino for the FIFA presidency.
As reported by İdman.Biz, citing Foot Mercato, FFF president Philippe Diallo said the federation intends to hold consultations within UEFA to help identify a credible alternative to the current FIFA chief.
"Together with the members of the Executive Committee, we believe that confidence in Gianni Infantino has been lost. The current governance of football does not correspond to our vision," Diallo said.
"We have decided to begin a series of consultations within UEFA to contribute through a legitimate and credible project capable of bringing people together. When the time is right, a candidate will be identified who will defend our interests at the next election."
Earlier this week, the FFF unanimously withdrew its support for Infantino's re-election. France had initially backed him in June but reversed its position following growing concerns over FIFA's governance.
The French federation now plans to develop an alternative programme for FIFA's future by consulting experts from France and abroad. Among those expected to be involved is former FIFA chief operating officer Kevin Lamour, who left the organisation this summer after criticising Infantino's plans.
The dispute intensified following Infantino's proposal to open FIFA's commercial operations, including rights connected to the World Cup, to private investors. The plan faced strong opposition and was eventually abandoned. UEFA welcomed its withdrawal, saying the proposal had been unanimously rejected by its national associations and opposed by numerous other federations and confederations.
It was subsequently reported that UEFA was preparing possible criminal proceedings in Switzerland over the failed privatisation project.
Infantino has led FIFA since February 2016 and intends to seek another term. The next FIFA presidential election is scheduled for March 18, 2027, in Rabat, Morocco, with nominations due by November 18, 2026.
