Japan Football Association president Kozo Tashima has announced his candidacy for the FIFA presidency, pledging to restore integrity to world football's governing body.
Tashima, who has led the JFA since 2016, declared his intention to run in the upcoming FIFA presidential election. The 67-year-old administrator emphasized the need for transparency and ethical leadership following years of corruption scandals that have plagued the organization.
"We must bring integrity back to FIFA," Tashima stated, outlining a platform focused on governance reform, financial accountability, and development programs for smaller member associations.
The election date has not yet been confirmed by FIFA. Current president Gianni Infantino, in office since 2016, has not publicly addressed whether he will seek another term.
Tashima's candidacy marks the first formal challenge from an Asian football leader in recent FIFA presidential races. His background includes roles in Asian Football Confederation governance and organizing the 2002 FIFA World Cup co-hosted by Japan and South Korea.
