Asian Football Confederation and Qatar clash over FIFA leadership criticism

A political rift has emerged within Asian football following a dispute between the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and the Qatar Football Association (QFA) regarding criticism of FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

The conflict began after the AFC joined UEFA and CONCACAF in issuing a joint statement questioning Infantino’s leadership. The statement followed a controversial, though ultimately shelved, proposal by Infantino to introduce private investment into FIFA competitions, including the World Cup. Critics in the joint statement argued that “football belongs to no individual” and suggested Infantino should step down.

Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, president of the QFA, challenged the AFC, claiming that neither he nor the QFA were consulted before the joint position was released. Al-Thani questioned the basis upon which the AFC could represent all 47 member associations without prior consultation.

In response, AFC President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa rejected the suggestion that he exceeded his authority. He stated that he acted “within the legal mandate given to me in the AFC’s constitution” and asserted his responsibility to protect the interests and values of the sport.