Paris Saint-Germain President Nasser Al-Khelaifi has ruled out running to succeed Gianni Infantino as FIFA president, confirming his desire to remain with the French club during appearances in Salzburg following his team’s European Super Cup victory.
The speculation surrounding world soccer’s top administrative post intensified following controversy over commercial projects, the future of the Club World Cup, and a blocked proposal by Infantino to sell a stake in the World Cup to private equity. As soccer federations across the globe banded together to block the private equity sale, Infantino found himself fighting to retain his position ahead of upcoming presidential elections scheduled for March 2027.
Nasser Al-Khelaifi Rejects FIFA Speculation After Super Cup Victory
Al-Khelaifi’s name had surfaced as a potential contender to replace Infantino, driven by his extensive connections within European soccer and his influential roles across the sport’s governing bodies. Beyond leading Paris Saint-Germain—acquired by Qatar Sports Investment (QSI) in 2011—Al-Khelaifi serves as a member of UEFA’s Executive Committee, chairs the European Football Clubs (EFC), and leads QSI.
Press reports indicated that various parties were prepared to support a presidential run. However, the club president firmly dismissed those rumors while celebrating PSG’s 2-1 victory over Aston Villa in the UEFA Super Cup, which followed the French club capturing a second straight Champions League title earlier in the year.
“I am very happy, very, very happy, to be president of Paris Saint-Germain. Happy to continue.”
Nasser Al-Khelaifi, Paris Saint-Germain President
When directly asked in Salzburg whether he wanted to replace the current FIFA chief, Al-Khelaifi told reporters that he was not interested. RMC network reports and additional statements carried by beIN SPORTS confirmed that he intends to remain in his post in France, putting an end to media chatter linking him to the upcoming ballot.
Gianni Infantino Fights to Retain Leadership Amid Opposition
While Al-Khelaifi distanced himself from the administrative turmoil, Infantino faced mounting political friction. Several member nations, including England, condemned Infantino’s proposal regarding World Cup equity sales and withdrew their backing for his continued leadership.
Despite the backlash from various federations, Infantino retained high-profile backing from the United States. U.S. President Donald Trump took to social media to label calls for Infantino’s replacement a mistake, citing his stewardship of the North American tournament.
“Fifa would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing president Gianni Infantino. He is fantastic, having just presided over the most successful World Cup, by four times, ever presented. If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again.”
Donald Trump, U.S. President
Potential Successors and the Road Ahead for FIFA Leadership
With Al-Khelaifi officially ruling out a candidacy, attention turned to other figures mentioned as prospective contenders. Frontrunners for the role include AFC President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa and CONCACAF President Victor Montagliani.
Additionally, UEFA’s Aleksander Ceferin—who has voiced sharp criticism of Infantino—is widely expected to contend for the position. Infantino remains scheduled for re-election next year, where he aims to secure his fourth and final term at the helm of global soccer should he survive the ongoing pushback from member associations.
