Israel Withdraws Support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino Amid Global Football Rift

The Israeli Football Association has officially withdrawn its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino ahead of his bid for re-election, marking a significant development in the growing divide within global football leadership. According to Sky Sports correspondent Rob Harris, the decision was communicated in a letter from Shino Zohar, chairman of the Israeli FA and UEFA Executive Committee member, to FIFA headquarters. The letter cited an "unprecedented crisis of trust" between UEFA's and FIFA's visions for managing world football, describing the rift as "deep, fundamental, and principled."

This move places Israel among the growing number of European football bodies opposing Infantino's continued presidency, intensifying the political and institutional tensions between FIFA and UEFA during a particularly sensitive period. Despite the firm stance, the Israeli FA emphasized its openness to dialogue, expressing hope for renewed cooperation and a shared path forward in global football governance. The decision underscores the challenges Infantino faces within Europe as he seeks another term leading FIFA.