Saudi Arabia supports Infantino without enthusiasm

Riyadh, August 28 — The Saudi Football Federation (SAFF) has issued a statement on its website declaring that it would support FIFA President Gianni Infantino "at this time." However, this support is not without reservations. The Saudi backing comes after the SAFF first acknowledges the Swiss leader's contributions: "The contribution of the FIFA President to the global expansion of the game over nearly a decade must also be commended." Before adding: "At this time, the SAFF supports the ongoing efforts of FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the FIFA leadership to restore unity within the football family and continue growing the game for the benefit of all."

A Conditional and Strategic Support

The tone adopted by the SAFF contrasts with unbridled enthusiasm. The Saudi statement follows a logic of moderation while displaying a willingness for dialogue. The mention of unity within the "football family" reflects a shared concern among many stakeholders in the beautiful game, as tensions persist within governing bodies. Through this message, the SAFF appears to seek a balance between supporting current governance and calling for greater global cohesion. Martinelli close to a move to Saudi Arabia, further evidence of the growing ties between Saudi football and European players. Saudi Arabia, in the midst of sporting expansion, is adopting a diplomatic stance on this issue. The country is leveraging football as a tool of soft power while avoiding deep involvement in FIFA's internal disputes. The SAFF thus prefers to emphasize the growth of the game, a central argument for justifying its measured support for Infantino.

Saudi Football and FIFA: A Relationship Under Construction

Saudi support is part of a broader context in which the kingdom is ramping up its investments in sports, notably through high-profile player signings and commercial partnerships. By backing FIFA, the SAFF is bolstering its international standing while reaffirming its commitment to a unified vision of football. This cautious approach may also reflect Saudi ambitions to secure hosting rights for future international tournaments. González leaves Gotham FC for Al Qadsiah, another sign of the growing appeal of Saudi clubs to foreign talent. Yet the Saudi statement does not entirely conceal expectations regarding dialogue. The SAFF stresses the need to “restore unity” within football’s family, a phrasing that hints at lingering reservations. While criticism of Infantino mounts elsewhere, Saudi Arabia has chosen not to publicly break with him, while stopping short of full endorsement. A strategy that may shift depending on the next developments within FIFA.