Infantino calls for 'culture of dialogue' amid resignation calls
The FIFA president says he wants to create a culture that is "not about generating positive headlines" as federations call for him to step down.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino is striving to establish a culture of open dialogue within the governing body as he faces mounting pressure to resign. Despite his critics, Infantino shows no signs of yielding the role and is still determined to serve. He is set to face an election challenge ahead of a March 18 vote by FIFA members.
Infantino recently called for a fresh culture of openness at FIFA, emphasizing that it is not about generating positive headlines. He offered to provide an independent review of FIFA's operations and decision-making processes. The president has received positive feedback from various parts of the world regarding this proposal and stressed the importance of continuing to listen to each other.
Ahead of October 15, a meeting of the 37-member FIFA Council will discuss consultation with the 211 member federations and six continental soccer bodies on strengthening FIFA's decision-making processes. The existing ownership structure of FIFA, a Switzerland-based not-for-profit organization, is heavily concentrated, with the 211 members effectively owning the organization that has over $5 billion in cash reserves.
Critics have been vocal against Infantino's proposal for a commercial spin-off, which includes at least 20% of FIFA's commercial rights, potentially fronted by investors like Josh Kushner. This plan has created turmoil within FIFA, as Continental bodies like UEFA have resisted the changes, ultimately leading to a crisis that has dominated the sport since 2015 anti-corruption arrests. Infantino insists he is committed to listening to soccer officials and growing football for the benefit of everyone globally.
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