FIFA President Gianni Infantino has proposed a new consultation on how the organisation makes major decisions, following criticism of a shelved private-investment initiative.
In an appeal to FIFA’s 211 member associations, Infantino called for a structured review of the responsibilities of the president, the FIFA Council and congress. He also urged greater transparency and wider participation in the organisation’s decision-making.
Reforms to face initial review
Infantino has asked for initial reform proposals to be considered at a FIFA Council meeting on October 15. The available details do not specify what individual measures will be put forward.
The governance review follows opposition to the FIFA Forward Enterprise plan. The proposed commercial company could have allowed private investors to acquire stakes in an entity responsible for overseeing major events.
The plan was shelved after resistance from several football bodies, including UEFA. UEFA opposed the initiative, threatened a boycott and later called for Infantino to resign.
Infantino defends initiative
Infantino said FIFA’s authority and sporting independence were not at stake. “FIFA’s authority and sporting independence were never for sale,” he said while defending the proposed investment initiative.
He also acknowledged that the proposals became public before FIFA’s internal process had been completed, creating the impression that decisions had already been made.
Infantino is seeking re-election and is currently the only confirmed candidate for the next FIFA presidential election, which is scheduled for next March. CONCACAF President Victor Montagliani is widely expected to challenge him, although he has not been confirmed as a candidate.
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