Asian Football Body Now Backs Infantino for Fifa President

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has announced its support for Gianni Infantino to serve another term as Fifa president, marking a major change in position.

AFC president Sheikh Salman praised Infantino publicly and was seen hugging him, showing a clear sign of friendship and approval.

This represents a significant turnaround, because just two months ago the AFC had taken a very different stance.

At that time, the AFC had stood alongside Uefa, European football's governing body, and Concacaf, which represents North and Central America, in opposing Infantino.

The reasons behind this earlier opposition were not fully explained in available reports, but it suggested disagreement among major football confederations about Infantino's leadership.

Now, the AFC has made a U-turn, fully endorsing Infantino instead.

Fifa, the world's governing body for football, holds elections for its presidency periodically, and confederation support can play an important role in these votes.

With the AFC representing many national football associations across Asia, its backing could strengthen Infantino's position as he seeks another term.

It remains unclear what caused the AFC to change its position so dramatically within such a short period.

The shift highlights the often unpredictable and shifting alliances within international football politics.

Observers will likely watch closely to see whether Uefa and Concacaf maintain their original opposition or follow the AFC's lead.

Infantino has led Fifa for several years, and his leadership has often attracted both strong support and criticism from different regions of the football world.