Kozo Tashima, the honorary president of the Japan Football Association, has declared his intention to challenge Gianni Infantino for the FIFA presidency. Tashima aims to promote a more principled and less controversial approach to football governance, emphasizing the values of Japanese football. His candidacy comes amid concerns over FIFA's direction and its relationships with certain nations, particularly in Asia.
Tashima, who has a long history in football administration, believes that his calm demeanor and focus on listening could resonate with voters. While he acknowledges the challenges ahead, he is committed to advocating for integrity in the sport, positioning himself as a candidate for change in the upcoming election in March 2024.