The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has publicly backed FIFA president Gianni Infantino and the policies introduced during the past decade, while stressing the importance of transparent governance and democratic decision-making following the recent controversy involving FIFA.
“On behalf of the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and its Executive Committee, we wish to express our support for the policy pursued over the past 10 years. This policy was primarily aimed at developing football worldwide and ensuring institutional stability, based on a clear, stable and transparent governance model,” the AFA said in an official statement.
Infantino has faced increased scrutiny after a proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors became public. FIFA subsequently withdrew the project, which the AFA said had created uncertainty across the international football community.
“In light of the recent events that are now public, we wish to stress that FIFA has taken the decision to withdraw the project in question. From the outset, this proposal generated more uncertainty than clarity within the international football community,” the Argentine association said.
The AFA also highlighted the need for FIFA to acknowledge mistakes made during the process and noted that apologies had been issued to the organisation’s 211 member associations.
“Consequently, we wish to underline the importance of recognising the mistakes made during this process and offering an apology in the message addressed to FIFA’s 211 member associations. Respect for the principles of good governance is a fundamental pillar for strong relations between FIFA, its member associations and the continental confederations,” the statement added.
The Argentine body said that transparent administration, adherence to FIFA’s statutes and democratic procedures were central to maintaining unity within the international game.
“In line with our vision, this transformation is based on transparent governance, respect for statutory structures and adherence to democratic decision-making procedures. These are essential principles for maintaining the unity of the international football family and continuing to pursue sporting and institutional progress together, with a positive impact on the quality of life of the millions of people who play our beloved sport,” the AFA said.
The association also confirmed that it intends to continue working under Infantino’s leadership beyond the controversy, with the next FIFA Congress approaching.
“With a view to the next FIFA Congress, the association I have the honour of presiding over confirms its conviction that the way forward is to continue working under your leadership, so that we can go on building a better and even more inclusive football together,” the AFA concluded in its letter to Infantino.
The statement therefore combines support for the direction FIFA has taken over the past 10 years with a clear reminder of the standards the Argentine Football Association believes should govern the organisation. Its message places particular emphasis on institutional stability, openness and respect for established decision-making structures as football’s governing bodies work together on future sporting and administrative developments.
