FIFA President Gianni Infantino has proposed an external review of how the world football governing body operates. In a letter to FIFA Council members and national associations, Infantino explained that the independent process would recommend potential improvements. This move comes amidst increasing pressure over his aborted FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal. Infantino's letter stated that he is open to reform and willing to listen to stakeholders.
Infantino's proposal includes a consultation on strengthening FIFA's decision-making process. This would involve discussions on the role of the president and practical ways to enhance transparency, participation, and accountability in major strategic initiatives. The consultation will be conducted with confederations, member associations, and relevant stakeholders. Infantino emphasized that his goal is to improve FIFA's governance.
The FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal sparked a major backlash, leading to Infantino's change in tone. The proposal involved selling stakes in the World Cup and other competitions to private investors. Infantino claimed that the plan did not involve relinquishing FIFA's control or authority over sporting decisions. However, the proposal's collapse has led to renewed focus on FIFA's governance.
Infantino's letter comes after Uefa and Concacaf demanded that FIFA pay $10m to all 211 members from its cash reserves. The FIFA president remains committed to leading the organization and is confident in its future. He stated that the collapse of the FFE proposal does not diminish FIFA's ambition to invest more in football.
Infantino's opponents have until November 18 to find an alternative candidate for the FIFA presidency. The 56-year-old Swiss-Italian leader will stand for election for a fourth time in March 2027. European football's governing body, Uefa, began preparing criminal legal proceedings against Infantino in US courts over the FFE plan.
Infantino's tone shift represents a change in bid to survive. His change in tone may be a sign that he is willing to compromise to win another re-election. The FIFA Council will meet on October 15, and Infantino will hope that this relieves some of the pressure he is under.
Infantino's critics want an overhaul of FIFA's governance, including curbs on the president's power and greater emphasis on human rights and sustainability. It remains to be seen if Infantino is prepared to accept such changes to stay in power. The external review and consultation may be a step towards addressing these concerns.
Key points
- Infantino proposes external review of FIFA operations
- FIFA president open to reform and willing to listen to stakeholders
- Infantino's change in tone may be a sign of compromise to win re-election
