Fifa president Gianni Infantino has proposed an independent review of the governance structure of world football's governing body. This move comes amid mounting criticism over his abandoned plan to sell a stake in Fifa's commercial rights to private investors. In a letter to members of the Fifa Council and presidents of all 211 member associations, Infantino stated that the review would examine how major strategic decisions are made and recommend possible improvements.
The proposed review is a response to the collapse of the Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal. This plan involved creating a commercial company to manage the governing body's competitions and selling a minority stake to private investors. The plan, which included commercial rights linked to the World Cup, was withdrawn in July after opposition from several football authorities. Infantino acknowledged that the proposal became public before Fifa's internal process had been completed.
Infantino insisted that the FFE proposal never involved surrendering Fifa's control over sporting matters. He emphasized that Fifa's democratic processes, independence, and sporting authority were never for sale. The proposed review would consider the respective roles of the Fifa president, Bureau, Council, and Congress. It would also examine ways to strengthen transparency, participation, and accountability in major strategic decisions.
The reform proposal comes as opposition to Infantino's leadership has intensified. Uefa and Concacaf have called for an independent review of Fifa's finances. They proposed distributing at least $10 million to each of the organisation's 211 member associations from its reserves for the 2027-30 cycle. This proposal would amount to at least $2.1 billion.
Infantino made clear that the governance discussion would not include stepping aside. He said he remained committed to leading Fifa and would seek a fourth term when the presidential election is held in March 2027. Infantino expressed confidence in what Fifa can achieve together. He said proposals submitted ahead of the October 15 council meeting could be considered at that session.
Any changes to Fifa's statutes would subsequently require approval through Congress. The reform debate is unfolding as Infantino faces continued scrutiny over the FFE plan. Uefa is pursuing legal action in the United States, and Fifa has accused the European governing body of conducting a "smear campaign against it and its leadership".
The proposed review would also involve a structured consultation with confederations, member associations, and other stakeholders. This process aims to strengthen Fifa's governance structure and address concerns from various football authorities. Infantino's proposal is set to be discussed at the Fifa Council meeting on October 15.
Key points
- Infantino proposes independent review of Fifa's governance structure amid leadership pressure.
- Fifa's governance discussion will not include Infantino stepping aside.
- Uefa and Concacaf have called for an independent review of Fifa's finances.
