FIFA Governance Review Proposed After Commercial Rights Plan Is Withdrawn

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has proposed an independent external review of how the organisation makes major strategic decisions, following criticism of a now-withdrawn commercial investment plan.

The proposal would examine the roles of the president, the Bureau, the FIFA Council and the Congress when major initiatives are considered. It would also look at ways to strengthen transparency, accountability and participation by member associations and regional confederations.

The review follows opposition to an idea that explored selling a minority stake in a FIFA-controlled commercial company. The proposal involved a possible 20% interest connected to commercial rights, including rights associated with the World Cup. FIFA has said the plan was never approved, would not have transferred control over sporting decisions and has been withdrawn.

Infantino has also proposed consultations with football stakeholders on who should have authority over future strategic initiatives. Suggestions submitted in time could be discussed at the FIFA Council meeting scheduled for 15 October. Any amendment to FIFA statutes would require approval from the Congress.

The announcement does not itself change FIFA’s governance rules. It begins a process that could lead to recommendations, consultation and later decisions by the organisation’s governing bodies.