Kozo Tashima, honorary president of the Japan Football Association, has announced his candidacy to challenge incumbent Gianni Infantino for the FIFA presidency. The former Japan international and current FIFA Council member declared his intention ahead of the nomination deadline. This announcement comes as the national team is in strong form, unbeaten in its last four matches with three wins and a draw, most recently a 2-1 victory over New Zealand on 5 October.
Tashima explained his reasons for running. "I believe it is important to clearly communicate to the world of football the integrity, soundness, and high moral standards that Japanese football has cherished and built up over the years," he said.
Candidates require the backing of five FIFA member associations to stand. Tashima has the full support of the JFA and is expected to secure the necessary nominations without issue. He acted with the blessing of UEFA and held talks with its officials at the Asian Football Confederation congress in Tokyo last month.
The Election Landscape
Incumbent Infantino is believed to have the backing of several leading AFC nations as well as Africa and South America. He is expected to secure the votes required for re-election. Tashima's emergence could split the AFC vote and test the strength of Infantino's supporter base, though the Japanese candidate is certain to pick up votes from Europe and CONCACAF.
Infantino was under intense scrutiny recently for a since-abandoned plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors. Tashima's challenge comes against this backdrop.
JFA president Tsuneyasu Miyamoto said the decision represents "a major challenge to contribute to world football development." Tashima intends to use his extensive experience to contribute to the sport's global growth.
The Japan national team's next fixture is a friendly at home against Brazil on 14 November. The team's recent results include a 2-1 win over New Zealand, a 0-0 draw with Ecuador, a 2-1 victory over Venezuela, and a 3-1 win against Uruguay. In the New Zealand match, goals were scored by Ayase Ueda and Ritsu Doan.
Background and full detail: BBC Sport Football
