Hong Kong Football Chiefs Signal Support for Gianni Infantino Amid Scandal
SCMP · 1 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN
Summary
The Football Association of Hong Kong, China appears to be signaling support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, despite the embattled football administrator facing significant political challenges. At a media event on Friday to announce details for the coming Asean Cup competition, HKFA Chairman Eric Fok declined to give a direct answer when asked whether Infantino retained the association's backing, saying only that the organization would support whoever supports Hong Kong football development . The Swiss lawyer is expected to visit Hong Kong for the final of the second-tier Asean Cup on October 3, a tournament in which world No. 156 Hong Kong are the highest ranked of the six entrants .
Key Points
- The HKFA has positioned itself in Infantino's camp despite his weakened political standing following July's controversial World Cup stake sale plan
- Eric Fok Kai-shan refused to give a clear answer when pressed on whether HKFA still supported the FIFA president
- The Swiss FIFA president is scheduled to attend the Asean Cup final in Hong Kong on October 3, exactly two months before the March election deadline
- Infantino appeared via video at the FIFA Asean Cup press briefing, praising Hong Kong's involvement in what he called a "spectacular event"
- Hong Kong is ranked No. 156 globally and is the highest-ranked team among the six nations competing in the regional tournament
Why It Matters
The HKFA's careful positioning reflects the complex politics of international football governance, as Hong Kong seeks to maximize opportunities for hosting major tournaments while navigating the uncertainty surrounding FIFA's leadership. With Infantino's grip on power weakened ahead of March's election, the association's measured approach allows it to maintain relationships regardless of how the leadership contest unfolds .
The HKFA's careful positioning reflects the complex politics of international football governance, as Hong Kong seeks to maximize opportunities for hosting major tournaments while navigating the uncertainty surrounding FIFA's leadership. With Infantino's grip on power weakened ahead of March's election, the association's measured approach allows it to maintain relationships regardless of how the leadership contest unfolds .