France Pushes for Fifa Governance Reform Fifa governance reform
Fifa governance reform France’s football authorities are calling for major changes to the way Fifa is governed after the French Football Federation withdrew its support for Gianni Infantino’s presidency.
The FFF announced its decision on Thursday, joining England, Italy, the Republic of Ireland and Scotland in withdrawing backing for Infantino.
The move follows Infantino’s controversial proposal to sell stakes in Fifa competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors. The plan was later abandoned after generating widespread opposition.
The FFF had previously backed Infantino in June, before details of the investment proposal emerged.
French Federation Questions Fifa Leadership
FFF president Philippe Diallo said major decisions affecting the future of football should involve greater consultation and transparency.
“A project with such a significant impact on the future of football could not be envisaged without comprehensive information, in-depth consultation and a fully transparent decision-making process,” Diallo said.
“Fifa’s governance does not live up to the standards that football represents.”
Although Infantino abandoned the investment plan, the French federation said the wider issue of Fifa’s governance could not be considered resolved.
The FFF said it intends to begin discussions with confederations, national football associations, players, supporters and governance specialists as it considers possible reforms.
Infantino Faces Growing Opposition Fifa governance reform
Infantino’s proposal triggered a major reaction across international football, with Uefa threatening to boycott Fifa competitions over the plan.
Uefa, the Asian Football Confederation and Concacaf have called for Infantino to leave his position. However, he continues to receive support from South American governing body Conmebol and the Confederation of African Football, CAF.
Fifa has confirmed that Infantino will seek a fourth term as president at the organisation’s election in March.
France Wants Greater Transparency at Fifa governance reform
The FFF said its planned consultations will focus on restoring confidence in Fifa and improving the organisation’s transparency and independence.
“The aim of these consultations will be to foster collective reflection and to draw up proposals for a far-reaching transformation of Fifa’s governance, with a view to restoring confidence, enhancing transparency and ensuring the independence and exemplary conduct of world football’s governing body,” the FFF said.
The federation also described itself as a founding member of Fifa and said it wanted to contribute to discussions about the future regulation and development of football.
“The FFF, a founding member of Fifa, thus intends to contribute to a debate that is vital for the future of football, its regulation and its development,” it added.
The French federation’s position adds to the growing pressure on Infantino ahead of the next Fifa presidential election, despite his continued support from several major football confederations.
