Malta FA Backs Gianni Infantino’s FIFA Re-Election Bid
The Malta Football Association (MFA) has confirmed its support for Gianni Infantino’s bid to secure another term as FIFA president, joining more than 200 of FIFA’s 211 member associations in endorsing his re-election.
Defending its decision, the MFA said FIFA has become a more stable, sustainable and financially stronger organisation during Infantino’s decade in charge. According to the association, his leadership has strengthened football development worldwide while expanding support for national federations.
The endorsement comes despite growing criticism of Infantino’s leadership. During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, some football stakeholders and human rights groups accused FIFA of placing commercial interests and political image ahead of transparency and accountability. Critics have also argued that decision-making within the organisation has become increasingly centralised.
In response, the Malta FA highlighted what it described as FIFA’s significant transformation under Infantino. The association pointed to improved governance structures, greater independence between FIFA bodies and continued efforts to strengthen transparency, accountability and good governance.
The MFA also praised FIFA’s financial growth, noting that increased revenues have allowed the organisation to stage major international tournaments while investing more resources into football development across the globe.
A key reason behind Malta’s endorsement is the FIFA Forward Programme, which provides financial support to member associations. The MFA said the programme has expanded considerably in recent years, giving national federations more funding and flexibility to deliver projects based on their own development strategies.
The association explained that these improvements, together with FIFA’s broader commitment to growing the game worldwide, played a major role in its decision to back Infantino’s re-election. It also confirmed that the endorsement was approved by both the MFA Bureau and the Executive Board.
While acknowledging that FIFA can continue to improve, the Malta FA said communication and collaboration between FIFA and its member associations have strengthened, creating more opportunities for participation and closer engagement.
Infantino, who became FIFA president in 2016 following the corruption scandal that ended Sepp Blatter’s tenure, has overseen a period of significant commercial growth. FIFA has recorded substantial increases in revenue through expanded competitions, sponsorship agreements and broadcasting rights.
Although concerns over governance remain, support from more than 200 member associations leaves Infantino in a commanding position ahead of the next FIFA Congress, where he is widely expected to secure another term as president.
