The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has withdrawn its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, aligning itself with UEFA and its president Aleksander Čeferin over recent initiatives concerning the governance and development of international competitions, the FIGC said.
FIGC President Giovanni Malagò said the decision was intended to clearly and transparently set out the federation's position, which he described as fully aligned with that of UEFA and Čeferin. He said the FIGC would continue working with UEFA and other European federations to advance a vision of football based on sporting principles, solidarity and sustainable development, while prioritising the interests of supporters.
The move comes after Infantino's plans to establish a company to oversee FIFA's major men's and women's competitions became public in July.
Infantino has argued that the creation of FIFA Forward Enterprise would increase revenues for FIFA's member associations and contribute to the development of football worldwide. FIFA said the proposed structure could generate $4.2 billion.
The initiative has faced widespread criticism and condemnation from football officials, national federations and other organisations.
Infantino, 56, was first elected FIFA president in February 2016. He has since been re-elected twice, both times without opposition.
By Tamilla Hasanova
