In a letter addressed to FIFA head Infantino, the AFA praised the Swiss administrator\u2019s decade-long tenure, saying his leadership had strengthened football globally through transparent governance, institutional stability and greater inclusivity.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cOn behalf of the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and its Executive Committee, we express our support for the management carried out during the last 10 years, which had as its main focuses the development of football throughout the world and institutional strength based on a clear, stable and transparent governance model,\u201d the AFA said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The statement comes after FIFA withdrew its controversial investment initiative following widespread opposition from several member associations and confederations. The proposal, which sought to introduce external investment into parts of FIFA\u2019s commercial operations, sparked concerns over governance, transparency and the future independence of world football\u2019s governing body.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The AFA welcomed FIFA\u2019s decision to abandon the proposal and praised Infantino for accepting responsibility.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWe must acknowledge the Administration\u2019s decision to withdraw a project that, within the football family and from its inception, generated far more uncertainties than certainties,\u201d the federation said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIt is worth highlighting the acknowledgment of the errors made in that process and the apology expressed in the heartfelt message sent to FIFA\u2019s 211 member associations. Prioritising governance standards is a fundamental pillar for strengthening good relations between FIFA, its member associations and the confederations.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The world champions\u2019 federation also credited Infantino with transforming FIFA into a more open and inclusive organisation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cYou are leading a management that has brought about a profound transformation of FIFA; that has opened the doors of the organisation to all member associations and confederations, so that through frank and direct dialogue, we can all continue to promote football at all levels and disciplines,\u201d the statement added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The world champions\u2019 federation also credited Infantino with transforming FIFA into a more open and inclusive organisation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Argentina\u2019s backing further highlights the growing divide within world football over FIFA\u2019s leadership. While several national associations from outside Europe have publicly welcomed FIFA\u2019s decision to withdraw the investment proposal and accepted Infantino\u2019s apology, UEFA has maintained that it no longer has confidence in the FIFA president. European football\u2019s governing body continues to threaten a boycott of future FIFA competitions unless meaningful governance reforms are implemented.<\/p>\r\n\r\n