PFF backs Infantino reelection as FIFA eyes stadium rebuild

MANILA — The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) has endorsed Gianni Infantino’s bid for another term as FIFA president ahead of his scheduled visit to the Philippines this November to inspect Rizal Memorial Stadium and reaffirm plans for its redevelopment.

The federation announced its support on Nov. 6, 2026, citing Infantino’s commitment to developing football in emerging markets, including the Philippines.

The endorsement comes as Philippine football authorities seek international assistance to upgrade aging sports infrastructure and establish facilities capable of hosting elite international competitions.

For Filipino players and supporters, the proposed reconstruction of Rizal Memorial Stadium could provide improved training and competition facilities while strengthening the country’s ability to stage major international football events.

The PFF said Infantino’s visit would focus partly on assessing the historic stadium in Manila and reaffirming FIFA’s commitment to transforming it into a modern, world-class football venue.

The federation wants the facility upgraded to meet international competition standards, potentially strengthening its role as a major hub for Philippine football.

However, the PFF has not disclosed a construction timetable, project cost, or finalized funding arrangement for the proposed reconstruction.

The stadium redevelopment is part of a broader effort to address infrastructure limitations that have affected Philippine football’s development and international competitiveness.

Earlier in 2026, PFF President John Gutierrez outlined plans to seek international funding to convert Rizal Memorial Stadium into a football-specific venue capable of hosting official international matches.

The proposed conversion would also need to satisfy FIFA’s technical requirements, including playing-surface standards for applicable international competitions.

Beyond infrastructure development, the PFF said it supports Infantino’s reelection during the 2027 FIFA Congress to ensure the continuation and expansion of FIFA’s football development programs.

The federation credited his leadership with advancing initiatives intended to improve opportunities for countries seeking to strengthen their football systems.

Infantino, who has headed FIFA since 2016, is seeking another term as the governing body’s president in 2027.

The PFF’s endorsement follows support from the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF), which expressed its backing for Infantino in May 2026.

The Asian Football Confederation also endorsed his reelection bid in October 2026.

Infantino is scheduled to attend the 2026 AFF Congress on Nov. 15 in Makati, where Southeast Asian football officials will gather to discuss the region’s development and leadership.

The congress will also conduct elections for the AFF Council’s 2026-2030 term, including its president, four vice presidents, five council members, and one female council member.

The PFF said Infantino would also attend the 2026 ASEAN Summit as a show of solidarity with Southeast Asia’s growing football community.

His visit comes as the region continues to expand its role in international football through infrastructure investments, youth development programs, and the hosting of major competitions. (PFF)