Infantino opens door to Fifa reform talks after backlash over abandoned plan

Istanbul, September 22 - In a bid to address the backlash following his abandoned Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) plan, Fifa President Gianni Infantino has opened the door to discussions on reforming the world football governing body, according to reports from Anadolu Ajansi citing The Athletic magazine. Infantino's letter to Fifa Council members and presidents of all 211 member associations outlines two distinct reform plans aimed at enhancing the decision-making process within Fifa.

The first proposal calls for an independent external review of Fifa's current governance framework for major strategic initiatives, with the aim of recommending potential improvements. The second proposal involves establishing a direct, structured, and time-limited consultation with confederations, member associations, and relevant stakeholders to gather insights on strengthening Fifa's decision-making mechanisms.

Emphasizing the importance of Fifa's democratic processes, independence, and sporting authority, Infantino made it clear that "Fifa's democratic processes, independence and sporting authority were never for sale." He reiterated through his letter, "They are not for sale and never will be."

While Infantino's suggestions for reform remain to be seen, it is up to the 37-member Fifa Council, Fifa's principal decision-making body, to determine whether to pursue these proposals. Despite launching the FFE proposal this summer and subsequently withdrawing it due to widespread opposition, Infantino continues to attract scrutiny and criticism from several national associations and continental governing bodies.