FIFA’s Infantino pledges ‘culture of dialogue’ after uproar over secretive World Cup sell-off plan

Fifa president Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed his commitment to remaining in office, stating he has never been more determined and dedicated. Infantino persists in facing demands for his resignation following his aborted attempt to sell stakes in Fifa's World Cup business to private investors, including Donald Trump's extended family.

He addressed these calls for reform in a letter to member associations, proposing an external review of Fifa, and elaborated on these ideas in a speech in Saudi Arabia. "I am eagerly anticipating feedback from everyone following my letter," Infantino stated at the Arabian Gulf Cup in Jeddah. "I have received positive messages from various parts of the world, and it is crucial we continue to listen to one another, whether here in Saudi Arabia or any of Fifa's 211 member associations.

We have a council meeting next month, so we will continue to engage in dialogue on these critical matters. Discourse and mutual respect must be the norm." Infantino emphasized that his focus is on doing what is best for the game, not on garnering positive headlines. "Fifa is always engaged. I am always engaged, and I want to hear how we can continue to expand football's reach for the benefit of all."

Despite his efforts to consolidate support ahead of next year's election, in which he hopes to extend his 10-year tenure, Infantino faces criticism for sidelining the Fifa Council in discussions with potential outside investors. He is set to continue his diplomatic push with appearances at the UN general assembly in New York and the European Football Clubs body's annual summit in Copenhagen.

However, the CEO of the Sport Integrity Global Alliance, Emanuel Macedo de Medeiros, cautioned that merely announcing a review is not sufficient. "The real test is whether the process can earn trust," Medeiros warned, outlining five criteria for the credibility of an external review: independence from the outset, a sufficiently broad mandate, full access, objective standards, transparency, and a clear mechanism for action, accountability, and independent follow-up.

The Fifa Council is scheduled to meet on October 15, and candidates seeking to challenge Infantino must register their intentions by November.