FIFA president Gianni Infantino has opened the door to an external review of the organisation’s operations, potentially paving the way for changes to its governance structure.
The proposal comes amid renewed discussions about FIFA’s decision-making processes, transparency and the balance of powers within the organisation.
According to reports, the proposed review could examine the role and powers of the FIFA president, how major decisions are made, participation by member associations and wider accountability within the governing body.
Infantino has defended FIFA’s existing principles while indicating that he is open to discussions on how the organisation can improve its processes.
“Democratic processes, independence and sporting authority at FIFA were never for sale. They are not for sale and never will be,” he said.
The development follows recent discussions within FIFA over its governance and internal processes.
In August, FIFA said its senior leadership had agreed that processes, communication and interactions between the president, secretary general and management board could be improved. The organisation said the changes were intended to strengthen governance and transparency.
The discussions also followed the withdrawal of the FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal, which FIFA said had created divisions among stakeholders. Infantino announced in July that the proposal would not proceed after concerns emerged over the level of support and consultation.
FIFA has also highlighted governance reforms introduced during Infantino’s presidency, including changes to its statutes and regulations and greater involvement of member associations and other stakeholders in decision-making.
The proposed external review could therefore provide an opportunity to examine FIFA’s current structures and identify areas for further reform.
Any changes would be subject to FIFA’s established governance processes and the involvement of its member associations.
