Japan Football Association (JFA) honorary president Kohzo Tashima has announced his intention to challenge Gianni Infantino for the FIFA presidency.
The FIFA Council member emerged as a serious challenger after Japanese media reported on Thursday that he had declared his intention to contest next March's election.
According to Japanese newspaper Asahi, the JFA board unanimously agreed to support his bid following a meeting of the national football association. Sports newspaper Nikkan Sports also reported the development.
"I am grateful that I can make this announcement with the full support of the JFA," Tashima said.
"It's not about winning or losing but about conveying to the world the honest, sound and upright attitude that Japanese football has built. What Fifa needs now are these values that we have protected. I have decided to run in order to make this appeal to the world."
The 68-year-old former Japan international has been a member of FIFA's ruling council since 2015 and is widely regarded as a respected and diplomatic figure in football administration.
His decision comes amid growing criticism of Infantino, particularly following his proposal in July to allow private investors to buy stakes in future World Cup profits, which sparked widespread debate in football circles.
Tashima's campaign will require formal backing from at least five of FIFA's 211 member associations. Candidates must also pass an eligibility review conducted by a three-member panel appointed by FIFA.
The presidential election is scheduled for March 18 in Rabat, Morocco.
Japan has recently shown signs of opposition to Infantino's leadership, with JFA vice-president Takeshi Okada resigning last week over controversies surrounding this year's World Cup, which he said represented a "significant divergence" from his personal beliefs about sporting integrity.
Meanwhile, UEFA is also reportedly working to identify a candidate capable of challenging Infantino ahead of the November 18 deadline for entering the presidential race.
Tashima's announcement could therefore add fresh tension to the FIFA presidency contest as opposition to Infantino's leadership continues to emerge.
By: Pascal Amoah
