Infantino proposes independent review of FIFA governance

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has said he is “fully open” to discussing reforms within football’s world governing body, announcing two proposals aimed at strengthening FIFA’s governance and decision-making processes.

In a post on Instagram, Infantino said he had written to FIFA vice-presidents, members of the FIFA Council and the presidents of all 211 FIFA member associations to inform them of his position.

“I am making two proposals aimed at ensuring that FIFA’s governance remains in step with the challenges and opportunities that exist within our sport,” Infantino said.

Under his first proposal, Infantino said he would ask the FIFA Council whether it wishes to commission an independent external review of FIFA’s current governance framework for major strategic initiatives, with the aim of identifying potential improvements.

His second proposal is for the FIFA Council to establish a direct, structured and time-limited consultation with the confederations, member associations and relevant stakeholders on ways to further strengthen FIFA’s decision-making.

Infantino said the proposals were necessary because FIFA “belongs equally to all 211 Member Associations and everyone has an equal voice.”

The announcement comes after criticism of FIFA’s handling of major strategic initiatives, including the now-abandoned FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal involving private investors and FIFA’s commercial rights. Infantino’s proposals for an external review and broader consultation have also been outlined in a letter sent to FIFA’s leadership and member associations.

“Football is for everyone, everywhere. That principle will continue to guide our work,” Infantino concluded.

Photo Instagram/gianni_infantino