Countdown to FIFA Election Reaches One Month

On February 26, FIFA will elect a new President for the first time in nearly two decades. Sepp Blatter had been in charge of the global governing body of soccer since 1998, but has been banned because of corruption charges, to the joy of most soccer fans worldwide. Also not taking part is UEFA President Michel Platini, long considered Blatter’s “heir apparent,” as he is currently suspended for his role in corruption charges. With five candidates confirmed for the February election, what are their chances of succeeding the man once known as “The Most Powerful Man in Sports”?

Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein

The Jordanian prince finished runner-up to Blatter in FIFA’s most recent presidential election last year, and has been a Vice President with the organization since 2011. Ali was seen as the candidate of true reform last year compared to Blatter, as he was among those questioning the legality of the successful World Cup bids from Russia & Qatar. However, his status as a FIFA VP could leave many wondering if he truly seeks to change FIFA’s reputation, having been in the inner circle for many years.

Salman Bin Ibrahim al-Khalifa

Sheikh Salman – a member of Bahrain’s royal family – is currently President of the Asian Football Confederation, and once served on FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee. He’s viewed as one of the current front-runners for President, but like Prince Ali, his previous experience working in FIFA may prove to be a disadvantage.

Jérôme Champagne

The Frenchman was a FIFA executive from 1999 until 2010, so one factor in his favor is his absence from the organization in recent years, when criticism was at its heaviest. He has often been considered a person of reform in the world of soccer, even during his time at FIFA. Champagne originally intended to run for President in the 2015 election, but did not gain enough support. Again, the issue comes down to whether the label of “former FIFA executive” works for or against this candidate.

Tokyo Sexwale

The only candidate who doesn’t already have a background with FIFA, Sexwale may be a popular choice for anyone who wants a textbook definition of reform to come. The South African was also not involved with the Rainbow Nation’s successful bid to host the 2010 World Cup, but has found success in the diamond industry. He is also a political figure in his homeland, having spent time on anti-apartheid causes along with Nelson Mandela.

Gianni Infantino

Infantino has been the UEFA General Secretary since 2009, serving under President Michel Platini. He’s viewed as a second front-runner to win February’s election, along with Sheikh Salman, but his connection with UEFA may have a tendency to work against him. The European governing body have been accused of conspiracy, although not in the same level as FIFA, but one may interpret Infantino as a stand-in of Platini until his ban expires.

One month to go before the election means plenty of talking points ahead for global soccer fans.

Leave a comment