FIFA president Infantino proposes governance review

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 23, 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has proposed an independent review of the organization's decision-making processes after the failed plan to sell a minority stake in FIFA’s commercial rights faced widespread opposition. The review aims to improve governance, transparency, and accountability within FIFA and will involve consultations with member associations before potential reforms are presented for approval at the FIFA Congress.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has proposed commissioning an external independent review of the governing body's decision-making processes, following criticism over a recently abandoned investment plan. In a letter addressed to the FIFA Council and all 211 member association presidents on Monday, Infantino acknowledged concerns arising from the handling of the proposal to sell a minority stake in FIFA’s commercial rights.

The investment plan, which would have involved the sale of a 20% stake in FIFA’s commercial rights—including those related to the World Cup—to private investors, was dropped in July amid widespread opposition and threats of boycott. UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation, and Concacaf were among the confederations that publicly called for leadership changes within FIFA in response to the plan.

Infantino stressed that the proposed sale would not have affected control over sporting decisions but was intended to explore new avenues to raise funds for football development. He indicated that the reaction to the proposal highlighted the need to reassess how FIFA manages and approves major strategic initiatives.

The review, if approved by the FIFA Council, would analyze the current governance framework, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of key bodies such as the president, Bureau, Council, and Congress. It would also examine mechanisms to enhance transparency and accountability throughout the decision-making process. Infantino further suggested that consultations would be held with confederations, member associations, and other stakeholders to solicit input on potential reforms.

Submissions for the review are expected to be discussed at the Council meeting scheduled for October 15, though the deadline for contributions has yet to be finalized. Any proposed changes to FIFA’s statutes resulting from the review would require approval by the FIFA Congress.

The proposal for a governance review reflects ongoing discussions within FIFA on improving its organizational structure and responsiveness to member concerns, particularly in light of challenges posed by previous initiatives. The move has been seen as an attempt to rebuild trust and strengthen internal processes following the backlash against the investment plan.

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