Infantino proposes consulting federations to reform FIFA

FIFA president Gianni Infantino suggested on Monday that the world football governing body's member federations should be consulted to reform decision-making processes. The 56-year-old Swiss addressed 211 member associations in a letter, proposing a direct, structured and time-limited consultation with confederations, member associations and relevant stakeholders.

Infantino aimed to strengthen FIFA's decision-making, addressing concerns over transparency, participation and accountability in major strategic initiatives. The consultation would invite specific proposals on roles for the President, Bureau, Council and Congress. Infantino replaced Sepp Blatter as FIFA president in 2016 and has faced severe pressure since proposing a plan to bring private investment into the World Cups, which was later abandoned.

UEFA threatened to boycott FIFA competitions but later suspended that threat, urging Infantino to resign and preparing potential legal action for alleged criminal mismanagement. Infantino emphasized that FIFA's democratic processes, independence and sporting authority were never for sale, and the plan did not involve relinquishing control over sporting decisions.

However, the announcement of the private investment plan led to UEFA, CONCACAF and AFC issuing a joint letter criticizing Infantino's leadership. Despite criticism, Infantino remains the only candidate for re-election as FIFA president in March 2024, with CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani seen as a likely challenger.