FIFA: Four federations challenge Infantino’s reform

In a letter addressed to the 211 member associations, the FIFA president proposed an external and independent evaluation of decision-making processes, as well as consultations on the management of major strategic projects. He also assured that the positions of the federations would not affect access to development programs.

Bernd Neuendorf, president of the German Football Association and a member of the FIFA Council, described this initiative as a maneuver aimed at facilitating Infantino’s re-election in March 2027. He believes that the Swiss leader no longer has the credibility necessary to lead a reform of the institution himself.

The Dutch Football Association acknowledged that some measures align with its requests but stated that trust has not been restored. It continues to call for a change in leadership in 2027. Its Swedish counterpart also considers the proposals to be late and insufficient.

In Wales, General Director Noel Mooney challenged the significance of the document on BBC Radio Wales. He expressed a desire for FIFA to utilize its reserves more for the benefit of member associations instead of seeking private investors. Belgium had already refused to support Infantino without answers regarding a previous controversy.

The FIFA Forward Enterprise project was supposed to include commercial rights related to the World Cup. It was abandoned in July following opposition from UEFA, the Asian Confederation, and CONCACAF. The FIFA Council is set to revisit governance on October 15, while presidential candidacies are expected before November 18.