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

Fifa president Gianni Infantino has called for an external review of the world football governing body's governance structure, expressing openness to potential reforms. In a letter addressed to Fifa council members, disclosed to BBC Sport, Infantino outlined two proposed changes to be discussed at the upcoming council meeting. Infantino first sought permission to commission an independent external review of the current governance framework for major strategic initiatives, with the aim of identifying potential improvements.

Additionally, he proposed establishing a direct, structured, and time-limited consultation with confederations, member associations, and stakeholders to gather specific proposals on enhancing Fifa's decision-making process. The consultation would focus on strengthening transparency, participation, and accountability in major strategic initiatives.

Infantino's proposal comes amid growing criticism over his aborted Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) plan, which aimed to create a new company to manage commercial and ticketing rights for all competitions, including World Cups. Uefa and Concacaf, representing Europe and North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, have demanded that Fifa pay $10 million to all 211 member associations from its cash reserves.

Earlier this month, Uefa chair Debbie Hewitt, a Fifa vice-president, urged Infantino to release all documents related to the FFE proposal. Infantino, the 56-year-old Swiss-Italian leader, will seek re-election for a fourth term in March 2027, with his opponents having until 18 November to nominate an alternative candidate.