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Top Japan FA official to stand against Infantino for FIFA presidency
Kozo Tashima, honorary president of the Japan Football Association, has announced he will challenge Gianni Infantino in FIFA’s presidential election in March. His candidacy brings a second declared challenger into the contest and presents Japanese football’s stated principles of integrity and ethical standards as part of his platform.
Tashima, 68, was Japan FA president from 2016 to 2024 and has served on the FIFA Council. Candidates have until 18 November to declare; Infantino is seeking a fourth and final term and is considered well placed after the Asian Football Confederation endorsed him. He has also said he has the backing of the “vast, vast majority” of member associations, despite earlier criticism and calls to resign.
In short
- Kozo Tashima will challenge Gianni Infantino for FIFA president.
- Tashima is the second declared challenger.
- Infantino has the Asian confederation’s endorsement.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Tashima’s challenge could give member associations a meaningful alternative and put integrity and ethical standards more firmly on the agenda. A contested election may also encourage scrutiny of FIFA’s leadership and give national federations a chance to weigh different approaches to governing world football.
The case against
Infantino’s supporters could argue that his backing among member associations, including the Asian Football Confederation, reflects confidence in his leadership and continuity. They may see another term as a way to carry on FIFA’s current direction, while noting that Tashima’s candidacy alone does not establish that he would govern more effectively or ethically.