Embattled Gianni Infantino says he is open to talks over FIFA reform

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has proposed an outside review of how the governing body makes major decisions, ⁠acknowledging in a letter to members that its handling of a now-abandoned investment plan had caused outrage. He also said he would propose consultations with confederations, member associations and other stakeholders on strengthening FIFA’s decision-making. The proposals would examine who has a say in major initiatives – including the roles of the president, bureau, ‌council and congress – and how to improve transparency and accountability.

Infantino faced a fierce backlash over his proposal to sell a 20 percent stake in FIFA’s commercial rights, including the World Cup, to private investors. The plan was abandoned in July after opposition and boycott threats, with UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation and Concacaf subsequently calling for changes to FIFA’s leadership. Infantino said the abandoned plan had explored whether selling a minority stake in a FIFA-controlled commercial company could raise more money for football development.

It would not have involved giving up control over ⁠sporting decisions, he said. But the proposal became public before it could be presented in ⁠full to the council and member associations, according to Infantino. It has now been withdrawn and will not proceed.” Infantino said he had heard differing ideas about who should decide major strategic ⁠questions.

Some favoured requiring unanimous agreement in the bureau, while others wanted ⁠such matters put directly to the congress and member associations. Those who support a particular model should have the opportunity to set out their case clearly,” he wrote. Suggestions received by the October 15 FIFA Council meeting could be discussed there, with ‌later submissions also considered within a deadline yet to be specified.

Any changes to FIFA’s statutes would need congress approval. Infantino also said member associations’ positions on proposals or governance matters would not affect their treatment by FIFA, whose ‌development ‌and solidarity programmes would continue under existing rules.