By Emmanuel Adeleke
Gianni Infantino has been re-elected for another four years as FIFA president.
The Swiss-Italian was elected unopposed at the congress of world football’s ruling body in Kigali, Rwanda.
The 52-year-old lawyer was confirmed in office by acclamation, on Thursday.
Infantino’s re-election was a formality after no other candidate came forward.
Although, he has lost his universal popularity among member associations for a range of reasons, including pushing for a failed plan to play the World Cup every two years. Several European countries, including Germany, Norway and Sweden, have not been happy with his presidency and said they would not actively support him.
It is officially his first re-election since he initially took over the remaining term of his disgraced predecessor, Sepp Blatter, in 2016. This means he can seek another term in 2027 until 2031, according to FIFA statutes.
Infantino, after being confirmed by a standing ovation at the 73rd FIFA Congress, appreciated delegates.
“Let me simply thank all of you, those who love me, you are many, and the few who hate me, I love you all.
“Being FIFA president is a big honour and privilege but also a huge responsibility. You can continue to trust on my commitment,” he said.
