Japan Football Association president Kozo Tashima has announced his candidacy for the FIFA presidency, setting up a contest against incumbent Gianni Infantino. Tashima, who has led the JFA since 2016, confirmed his intention to stand in the upcoming election.
The announcement marks the first formal challenge to Infantino's leadership since he assumed the role in 2016. Tashima's candidacy brings significant Asian representation to the race, with Japan being one of the continent's most influential football nations.
Infantino, who was re-elected unopposed in 2023, will now face a contested election. The FIFA presidential election is scheduled to take place at the next FIFA Congress.
