Japan FA Chief Tashima Plans FIFA Presidency Challenge

Japan Football Association honorary president and FIFA Council member Kozo Tashima, 68, says he will challenge incumbent Gianni Infantino in the FIFA presidential election scheduled for March 18 in Rabat. The JFA has reportedly unanimously backed his candidacy. Tashima, who has served on FIFA’s ruling council since 2015, says his campaign will promote the integrity and values of Japanese football; he would be the first serious challenger to Infantino. Infantino has faced criticism over a proposed FIFA commercial entity involving World Cup rights and other controversies. Candidates must secure endorsements from at least five member associations and pass an eligibility review.