Kathmandu— Six Nordic football associations – Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and the Faroe Islands – have jointly declared a loss of confidence in FIFA President Gianni Infantino, adding to growing pressure on his leadership and demanding significant reforms within world football's governing body. The associations met in Helsinki on Sunday and issued a statement supporting calls for Infantino’s resignation from UEFA, the AFC, and CONCACAF, as well as an independent investigation into a recently abandoned proposal to sell stakes in FIFA events to private equity investors. This unified stance underscores escalating concerns about governance and decision-making at the highest levels of FIFA.

Growing Calls for Resignation

Denmark’s football association previously pledged to seek a credible alternative to Infantino in March's presidential election, while UEFA, the AFC, and CONCACAF—representing Europe, Asia, and North/Central America & the Caribbean respectively—have also discussed a potential vote of no confidence. The Nordic associations have now aligned themselves with these efforts, signaling widespread dissatisfaction with Infantino’s leadership.

Concerns Over Private Investment Proposal

The joint statement specifically supports demands for an independent investigation into FIFA's proposal to sell a stake in events like the World Cup to private equity investors. This plan faced significant global backlash and was quickly withdrawn, but the Nordic associations believe a thorough review of the circumstances is necessary. They also called for binding guarantees that FIFA’s governance or competitions will never again be opened up to private ownership.

Demand for Governance Review

Beyond the immediate crisis surrounding the investment proposal and Infantino's leadership, the Nordic associations are pushing for a comprehensive overhaul of FIFA’s governance framework. They want an independent review to determine whether current structures ensure the independence, checks and balances, transparency, and accountability intended when FIFA adopted its reform program in 2016.

Infantino is currently seeking a fourth term as president until 2031 but faces mounting opposition from key regional confederations and now, a united front of Nordic football associations. The situation remains fluid as the March presidential election approaches.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.