FIFA president Gianni Infantino says he has the backing of the “vast, vast majority” of FIFA member associations for his re‑election. He makes this claim even after his recent commercial‑rights plan was criticised, so the story shows how a leader can stay popular.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) rallied behind Infantino, giving him a strong boost for a fourth term. This AFC support adds to his overall backing from many football bodies.

Two months earlier Infantino faced a furious backlash over a plan to sell part of the commercial rights of FIFA competitions to private investors. After the criticism, UEFA, the AFC and CONCACAF signed a letter stating football “belongs to no individual”. Infantino apologized for the failed private‑investment project and now says he is in a strong position to win re‑election.

No other candidate has yet emerged, and the nomination deadline is on November 18. Because of the wide support he claims, Infantino believes he will likely keep his job as FIFA president.