New Zealand Football (NZF) has formally withdrawn its support for Gianni Infantino's candidature as FIFA president ahead of the 2027 FIFA Congress, becoming the latest football association to publicly distance itself from the incumbent chief. The body has simultaneously called for an independent review into the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) scheme, citing a breakdown in trust within international football governance.

Why NZF Withdrew Its Support

In a formal statement, NZF said that decisions and actions within FIFA have 'contributed to a breakdown in trust and increased division within international football,' and that an independent review is 'required to restore confidence and trust.' The association framed its move as part of a broader push for stronger governance, accountability, and transparency across the global game.

'NZF believes this point in time represents an opportunity for all FIFA member associations to advocate for stronger governance, accountability and transparency which are fundamental in maintaining confidence of the administration of the global game,' the statement read.

The FFE Controversy at the Centre

The withdrawal comes in the wake of significant controversy surrounding Infantino's proposal to carve off commercial rights to the FIFA World Cup and sell a 20 percent stake to private investors — a move projected to raise approximately USD 7.2 billion (NZD 12.3 billion). Infantino was forced to withdraw the plan following widespread criticism from member associations and football stakeholders. The FFE scheme has since become a flashpoint for broader governance concerns within the organisation.

Oceania Football Confederation's Position

NZF's statement followed an executive committee meeting of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), which took a more measured stance. The OFC welcomed FIFA's decision to withdraw the FFE proposal and acknowledged its commitment to reviewing the issues surrounding the project.

'OFC recognises the progress achieved over the last decade in advancing football development in Oceania under FIFA's leadership and encourages FIFA to use the review as an opportunity to identify and implement any changes that may be necessary,' the confederation said. The OFC added that it remains committed to 'constructive dialogue and close collaboration' with all football stakeholders globally.

A Growing Pattern of Dissent

NZF is not the first — and is unlikely to be the last — association to formally pull its support for Infantino's re-election bid. The withdrawal signals mounting institutional pressure on FIFA's leadership as the 2027 Congress approaches. Notably, the dissent is now crossing confederation lines, with Oceania-based bodies joining what has been a widening chorus of concern over FIFA's governance framework. Whether the calls for an independent review gain traction at the confederation level will likely shape the political landscape heading into next year's vote.