Europe's biggest leagues demand sweeping FIFA reforms

The Premier League has joined forces with Spain's La Liga, Germany's Bundesliga, and Italy's Serie A in urging for comprehensive reforms to Fifa's governance structure, accusing current president Gianni Infantino of promoting exploitative policies. The four leagues maintain that world football's governing body needs to be transparent, objective, proportionate, and inclusive, stating that their sport cannot expand globally if its foundations remain unstable.

This call for reform follows Infantino's recent proposal for an independent review of Fifa's operations, prompted by controversy surrounding his failed attempt to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors. While the crisis over FFE (Fifa Forward Enterprise) led to its withdrawal, the leagues argue that the underlying issues remain, emphasizing the need for fundamental governance reform to restore clear boundaries within Fifa, including ensuring that disciplinary matters are free from political interference.

They also call for the establishment of a permanent body representing key stakeholders, promoting evidence-based decision-making, and separating Fifa's regulatory and commercial functions through robust institutional safeguards. Despite three confederations urging Infantino to resign, he has stated his intention to contest the re-election in March, with potential candidates required to endorse the proposed reforms.