Count Binface responds to FIFA Presidency calls

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FT Desk

Count Binface has responded to calls for him to run for president of FIFA, as Gianni Infantino faces further scrutiny.

Infantino's position at FIFA has become untenable in the eyes of many due to his failed plan to sell shares in the World Cup to private equity firms.

The proposals received almost universal criticism from fans, players, pundits and indeed football organisations around the world, such as UEFA, who are campaigning hard for him to be removed.

Football fans online have been facetiously suggesting names that could replace him, and Count Binface was mentioned.

Now, the "intergalactic space warrior" has responded to those calls, simply replying on X:

"How many jobs are MPs allowed?"

Who is Count Binface

Count Binface is a joke political candidate who has become a familiar face in British elections. Instantly recognisable thanks to his silver bin-shaped helmet and black cape, the character uses satire to poke fun at politicians while also raising awareness of real political issues.

Created and performed by comedian Jonathan David Harvey, Count Binface first appeared in 2018 and has since stood against several leading politicians, including Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak. Although there's never any realistic chance of winning, the campaigns have attracted plenty of attention and often receive thousands of votes.

His manifesto is a mix of the ridiculous and the relatable. Promises such as freezing croissant prices or bringing back Ceefax are clearly tongue-in-cheek, but they're often used to highlight wider concerns about the cost of living, public services and trust in politics.

Over the years, Count Binface has become something of a cult figure in UK politics, proving that a candidate wearing a bin on his head can sometimes generate as much public interest as the mainstream parties.