Premier League sets 100-day ultimatum for Fifa governance reform

Four of the world's largest football leagues – the Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga, and Serie A – have united to demand reforms in Fifa's governance structure, regardless of whether their current president, Gianni Infantino, remains in office. The leagues have urged the next president, whoever they may be, to convene an independently chaired Governance Convention within the first 100 days of their term, aiming to discuss key issues such as a meaningful role for leagues, clubs, and players, greater transparency, and power devolution from the president's office.

The Premier League and its counterparts expressed deep concerns about Fifa's unilateral decision-making on matters like the international calendar and competition expansion. They emphasized the need for change, stating that it is crucial for the future of football. The leagues have also called on candidates for the Fifa presidency to publish their reform programs, discuss them in debates, and abide by fair election rules.

The criticism from the leagues is not directed solely at Infantino. They hinted at his use of private jets and Fifa's social media to enhance his image, suggesting that Fifa's financial, legal, communications, and marketing resources should strictly remain neutral and not provide any electoral advantage to a candidate. The demand for reforms extends beyond Infantino himself, as the leagues argue that the issue lies in Fifa's overall governance structure, where a single individual wields excessive regulatory, commercial, and political power without adequate checks and balances.