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Aleksander Ceferin has reversed his decision to leave UEFA in 2027, agreeing to seek a fourth and final term after all 55 European national associations asked him to reconsider.
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The Slovenian is seeking re-election at the UEFA Congress in Astana, Kazakhstan, on April 22, 2027, which would keep him in office until 2031.
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His decision comes amid growing opposition from European football leaders to FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s leadership and calls for stronger governance, transparency and accountability.
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UEFA is seeking a credible alternative to Infantino ahead of FIFA’s March 2027 presidential election, with European officials expected to continue discussions before the November nomination deadline.
October 08, (THEWILL) – UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has reversed his decision to leave office in 2027 and will seek a fourth term as head of European football, extending his leadership campaign as the continent intensifies its push for reforms at FIFA.
The Slovenian announced his decision on Thursday during a meeting with the presidents and general secretaries of UEFA’s 55 national associations in Berlin, accepting their unanimous request that he reconsider his previously declared intention to step down when his current mandate expires.
If re-elected at the UEFA Ordinary Congress in Astana, Kazakhstan, on April 22, 2027, Ceferin would remain in office until 2031.
UEFA has described the proposed mandate as his final term.
The decision marks a significant reversal for Ceferin, who announced in February 2024 that he would not seek another term, despite changes to UEFA’s statutes that made a fourth presidential mandate possible. First elected in 2016, he was returned to office in 2019 and 2023.
“I want to thank the national associations for their trust,” Ceferin said in a statement released by UEFA, adding that there was still important work to be done.
He also reiterated his ambition to keep European football united, strengthen the sport and prepare UEFA for the next generation.
Ceferin’s Decision Comes Amid Growing FIFA Tensions
Ceferin’s continued presence at UEFA comes at a critical moment for the organisation’s relationship with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, whose leadership has faced increasing scrutiny from European football officials.
The latest dispute intensified following Infantino’s reported proposal to involve private investors in a company managing the commercial interests of FIFA competitions, including the World Cup.
The plan was withdrawn after attracting opposition, but the episode deepened concerns among UEFA officials about transparency and the concentration of decision-making powers within FIFA.
European football leaders have since called for stronger institutional checks, clearer responsibilities and greater accountability in the global governing body.
Following Thursday’s meeting in Berlin, UEFA outlined the qualities it wants in a potential successor to Infantino, describing the need for a respected and unifying figure with deep roots in football, leadership experience and a commitment to reform and integrity.
The organisation also emphasised that FIFA’s president should provide leadership without exercising excessive management control over the institution.
Ceferin has previously ruled himself out of running for the FIFA presidency. His decision to remain at UEFA therefore allows him to continue leading Europe’s response to the dispute without becoming a direct challenger to Infantino.
Olumide Atiba is a sports journalist with THEWILL, known for his keen news sense and compelling storytelling. He has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, well-structured reports that resonate with readers, with a strong focus on football coverage
