February 1 – FIFA president Gianni Infantino, speaking at the AFC’s 33rd Congress in Bahrain, emphasised the financial support that FIFA has given the region since he took over as president.
The Asian federations, who have pledged their support to Infantino in his re-election to the FIFA presidency (unopposed) next month, were complimented by Infantino for their passion for the game and their work “to make football truly global”.
“I am happy to be back and to witness the incredible passion of this region,” said Infantino.
He highlighted the hosting of the FIFA U-20 men’s World Cup that will take place in the region, in Indonesia this year, as well as the women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
The women’s World Cup is the “first (to be organised) between two different countries from two different confederations”, demonstrating a global unity, said Infantino.
He also went on to praise the Asian football. “Asian football is very very strong and there is much more to come. I am looking forward to collaborating between Asia and FIFA,” Infantino continued. Part of that collaboration is his support of the new FIFA-AFC Stadium to be built in Malaysia.
“Thank you for your support and trust and building a new FIFA that invests so much in football,” said Infantino, going on to remind delegates of the money FIFA spends in the region.
“In the seven years since my election (to the FIFA presidency), solidarity contributions have increased seven times. Almost $500 million has been invested in Asian projects,” he said.
“It is a pleasure to be here with you and building football with you,” he concluded.
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