FIFA President Infantino’s re-election endorsed in U-turn by Asian football

What happened: The Asian Football Confederation endorsed Gianni Infantino for another term as FIFA president, a turnaround after the AFC joined other bodies in criticising him two months ago. Key numbers: AFC has 47 member confederations. FIFA election is in March; candidate deadline is November 18, with none filed so far. Infantino apologised over a scrapped $4.2bn plan. Why it matters: Sheikh Salman said most AFC members back Infantino, whose travel and financial support for member countries are framed as vote-seeking. He acknowledged past issues but said lessons were learned.

The Asian Football Confederation endorsed Gianni Infantino for another term as FIFA president, a turnaround after the AFC joined other bodies in criticising him two months ago.

Sheikh Salman said most AFC members back Infantino, whose travel and financial support for member countries are framed as vote-seeking. He acknowledged past issues but said lessons were learned.