FIFA President Gianni Infantino has offered talks on possible reforms at the world football governing body amid mounting criticism of his leadership. In a letter to the heads of FIFA's 211 member associations and members of the FIFA Council, Infantino proposed an independent external review of FIFA's governance and consultations on strengthening its decision-making processes. The letter, seen by dpa, suggests Infantino is open to changes in the wake of criticism from various football stakeholders.
Infantino's letter outlines two key proposals for reform. Firstly, he will ask the Council to consider commissioning an independent external review of FIFA's current governance framework for major strategic initiatives and recommend potential improvements. Secondly, he will propose that the Council establish a direct, structured, and time-limited consultation with confederations, Member Associations, and relevant stakeholders on how FIFA's decision-making can be further strengthened.
The proposed discussions will focus on how FIFA institutions can be involved earlier in major projects and what role the president should play in future decision-making. This comes after Infantino faced criticism over scrapped plans to sell stakes in FIFA competitions, such as the World Cup, to private investors. The plans were met with opposition from various football stakeholders, including UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin.
Despite the criticism, Infantino made clear that he intends to continue leading FIFA. There was no suggestion that he would abandon a bid for a fourth term at the FIFA Congress in March 2027. In the letter, Infantino expressed his commitment to leading FIFA and confidence in what the organization can achieve together. He emphasized the importance of protecting FIFA's independence, strengthening its institutions, and ensuring that football's progress benefits the whole game.
Infantino's letter also struck a conciliatory tone towards his critics. He assured member associations that their treatment would not depend on their position on any proposal or institutional matter. Every Member Association is entitled to be heard, and disagreement should never prevent mutual respect. Proposals received before the FIFA Council meeting on October 15 could already be considered there.
The dispute between Infantino and his critics escalated in late August, with the threat of legal action in Switzerland over the World Cup investment plans. UEFA and CONCACAF have taken a hard line against Infantino in recent weeks, although they have yet to put forward a challenger for the FIFA presidency. The outcome of the proposed reforms and Infantino's bid for a fourth term remain to be seen.
The reforms proposed by Infantino aim to address concerns over FIFA's governance and decision-making processes. The independent external review and consultations will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to have their say and potentially shape the future of the organization. As the FIFA Congress approaches in March 2027, the football community will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold.
Key points
- Infantino proposes independent external review of FIFA's governance and consultations on strengthening decision-making processes.
- FIFA President intends to continue leading the organization despite criticism.
- Proposed reforms aim to address concerns over FIFA's governance and decision-making processes.
