Infantino losing grip on FIFA as Ireland's FA release statement in another blow

Gianni Infantino's grip on the FIFA presidency continues to loosen as yet another footballing body has released a statement criticising the president. The Irish FA has released a statement rescinding its letter of support for Infantino and explained the reason for doing so.

A statement from the FAI on Thursday morning read: "Following an FAI Board Meeting, the decision was taken to rescind the letter of support that the Association supplied earlier this year. It has since written to Fifa to explain its reasoning.

"The Association is grateful for the support that Fifa provides to Irish football, but recent events have raised significant concerns regarding governance, transparency and the lack of meaningful consultation.

"Considering the governance challenges that the FAI has had to overcome in recent years, the Association feels a particular obligation to advocate for and uphold best practice."

JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football's Facebook page

Last week the Welsh FA became the first of the home nations governing bodies to withdraw their support for Infantino, with the English FA following suit. It follows on from the FIFA president's brazen attempt to sell stakes in the company's commercial operations to private investors - which would impact the World Cup.

UEFA, Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation accused Infantino of breaking trust 'through deception' in an open letter published on Monday. Northern Ireland's IFA have noted the "wider concerns" raised by those in football regarding Infantino, but has not gone as far as withdrawing it's support of Infantino, though did support UEFA's stance.

"We take our responsibilities as a member association of both Uefa and Fifa seriously," said an IFA spokesperson.

"We support the current Uefa position on the matter and will continue to engage constructively on issues relating to football governance.

"We are of course aware of the recent developments and wider concerns within the football community. We are considering these matters carefully and will continue to engage through the appropriate governance structures and channels.

"At this stage, we have no further comment."

Sky's Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle includes at least 215 live Premier League clashes across the 2026/27 season, with more than 1,500 games from the EFL and beyond, plus F1, golf and darts.