Controversies at the World Cup could affect Infantino's future at FIFA

In recent days, the 2026 World Cup has been the scene of several controversies that could have a significant impact on Gianni Infantino's future as FIFA president. Since last Sunday, questionable decisions began to emerge, placing the highest institution in world football under the spotlight of criticism. One of the most notorious controversies was the decision to reverse the expulsion of American striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to participate in the crucial clash between the United States and Belgium. This measure generated outrage and discussion among fans and experts, who question the integrity of arbitrary decisions and fairness in the tournament. Furthermore, the performance of French referee Francois Letexier in the match between Argentina and Egypt was also criticized. The game had controversial decisions that raised doubts about the quality of refereeing in the competition. Such situations not only directly affect the teams involved, but also call into question the credibility of FIFA and its selection and training processes for referees.  These questions arise at a crucial moment, as the electoral process for the FIFA presidency will take place in March next year, which will coincide with the entity's 77th Congress. Gianni Infantino has already announced his intention to run for a new term, after 11 years at the helm of the organization. However, recent controversies could influence the opinion of the six confederations that are part of FIFA and, consequently, the vote of the 211 national federations. The Confederation of African Football (CAF), for example, has 54 representatives and, together with UEFA, which has 55, is one of the main confederations that will vote in the election. Infantino's future may depend on the support of these confederations, especially in a scenario where issues such as hosting the 2030 World Cup final and the leadership of host countries such as Morocco, Spain and Portugal are at stake. Given all these controversies, it remains to be seen how they will influence the voting and decisions of the federations regarding the future of FIFA and its president. The 2026 World Cup, therefore, in addition to being a sporting event, becomes a political battlefield that could determine the direction of the entity in the coming years. --- ## Related Articles 1. [Analysis: why the Brazilian team should adopt a defense with five at the World Cup](https://torcidanet.live/pt/news/analise-por-que-a-selecao-brasileira-deve-adotar-a-defesa-com-cinco-no-mundial) 2. [World Cup Quiz: Remember England x Croatia 2018](https://torcidanet.live/pt/news/quiz-do-mundial-relembre-inglaterra-x-croacia-de-2018)

Frequently asked questions

What are the main controversies in the 2026 World Cup?

The main controversies include the reversal of the expulsion of striker Folarin Balogun and the questionable decisions of referee Francois Letexier in the match between Argentina and Egypt.

How did the controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun affect the tournament?

The reversal of Folarin Balogun's expulsion sparked outrage among fans and pundits, raising questions about the integrity of arbitrary decisions.

What is the relationship between the World Cup's controversies and Gianni Infantino's future at FIFA?

Controversies can impact theopinion of confederations and the vote of national federations in the elections for the FIFA presidency, where Infantino will run for a new term.

When will the next electoral process for the FIFA presidency take place?

The next electoral process for the FIFA presidency will take place in March next year, coinciding with the entity's 77th Congress.

How many national federations are part of FIFA?

FIFA is made up of 211 national federations.

Read more on our latest coverage and stay tuned for updates on what happens next.