Uefa Explores Expanded Nations League Amid Growing Pressure on Gianni Infantino

Uefa Explores Expanded Nations League Amid Growing Pressure on Gianni Infantino

As pressure intensifies on Fifa president Gianni Infantino, Uefa is in discussions to broaden the Nations League to include teams from outside Europe. According to a report by The Guardian, talks are underway with Concacaf, the confederation for North and Central America and the Caribbean, which could lead to an expanded format starting in the 2028-29 season. These negotiations reflect a potential shift towards increased collaboration between Uefa and Concacaf, possibly sidelining Fifa. Both Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin and Concacaf president Victor Montagliani are reportedly advocating for Infantino’s resignation amid ongoing controversies, particularly regarding his failed efforts to attract private investors for the World Cup. Additionally, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is expected to join the Nations League discussions at a later stage. The integration of Concacaf nations into the tournament is designed to fit within the existing international match calendar, with the league phase scheduled for the autumn of 2028 and finals in March and June of 2029. Meanwhile, Infantino is anticipated to attend a youth football event in the Dominican Republic this weekend, aiming to bolster support among Concacaf nations. Countries like St Kitts & Nevis, Grenada, and Antigua and Barbuda have already expressed their backing for him. This event could also serve as a critical moment for Infantino, as he may encounter Montagliani, viewed by many as a possible contender for the Fifa presidency. Infantino's week has been marred by criticism following the dismissal of Fifa’s Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour, who had publicly criticized Infantino's leadership.

Source: The Independent Sport - 2026-08-21