FIFA admits mishandling of Forward Enterprise, backs Infantino

At the close of its summit in Rabat, Marocco, FIFA announced it had made errors in handling the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) project and simultaneously reaffirmed Gianni Infantino as its president. The admission came amid mounting scrutiny from member bodies.

The apology was formally addressed to all 211 federazioni affiliated with the organisation, underscoring FIFA’s commitment to transparency. It highlighted the need to rebuild confidence across the global football community.

The Rabat summit followed several weeks of escalating pressure on the world governing body. European football authorities had criticised the initiative, and a number of federations withdrew their support, putting Infantino’s leadership under scrutiny. The timing coincided with an imminent election that had previously seemed secured for Infantino.

Internal dissent became evident when external chief adviser Carlos Cordeiro resigned. Former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger publicly distanced himself from the project, denying any involvement. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and FIFA secretary‑general Mattias Grafström also voiced objections, noting an internal meeting that took place without Infantino.

Infantino’s Morocco gambit fuels UEFA revolt over failed Forward Enterprise

Senior officials present at the Rabat meeting included finance director Thomas Peyer, legal chief Emilio García Silvero, chief of staff Kevin O’Toole, federation‑division director Elkhan Mammadov and communications director Bryan Swanson. Their attendance signalled a coordinated effort to tackle the identified shortcomings.

The gathering focused on restoring trust among the 211 federazioni and improving governance processes. FIFA stressed that continuous improvement of processes, communications and interactions is essential to its vision.

«Following a meeting held in Rabat, Morocco, the FIFA Secretary‑General and the members of the FIFA Management Board present reaffirmed their full support for President Gianni Infantino, the only official elected by the 211 federations affiliated with FIFA.» The declaration also called for ongoing enhancements to project oversight. The statement explicitly named Gianni Infantino as Presidente of FIFA.

FIFA announced a comprehensive review of the Forward Enterprise proposal, with a report to be presented at the next FIFA Council meeting. The organisation also confirmed the formal withdrawal of the FFE project, pledging to protect its integrity while continuing to develop football worldwide.