German FA refuses to back Infantino, signaling rising FIFA discontent

The German Football Association (DFB) President Bernd Neuendorf announced that the DFB will not sign a support letter for Gianni Infantino's candidacy for a new FIFA presidential term. The decision highlights growing dissatisfaction among European football leaders over FIFA's recent governance, especially controversial disciplinary actions at the World Cup.

One focal point of the criticism is the reversal of U.S. player Folarin Balogun's suspension before the Round‑of‑16 match against Belgium, a move that media reports link to a phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Infantino, though the claim remains unverified. Despite the backlash, Infantino is still the frontrunner, backed by strong support from African, Asian and South American confederations. The FIFA presidential election is scheduled for 18 March 2027 in Rabat, Morocco.