Infantino launches external review to save FIFA reform

In the photo studio of IMAGO/JOERAN STEINSIEK in Zurich, the heavily besieged FIFA President Gianni Infantino looks pensively at the camera while speaking about the upcoming reforms. On Monday he announced an external review of the world body's decision‑making processes to patch up the recent cracks.

External review proposed

One man and his mission: damage control. In a letter addressed to the presidents of all 211 member associations, Infantino admitted that FIFA's handling of the now‑abandoned plans to involve investors had caused unrest.

“First, I will ask the Council whether it would like to commission an independent external review of FIFA’s current governance framework for major strategic initiatives and recommend possible improvements,” Infantino wrote in a Reuters‑provided letter to the FIFA Council and the presidents of all member associations.

He also announced that he will start consultations with the continental and national associations as well as other stakeholders to strengthen the decision‑making processes. Initial proposals are to be examined at the Council meeting scheduled for October 15.

Infantino will run again in the presidential election in March 2027; a challenger has not yet emerged. He stresses that the intended FIFA reform must continue to be pushed forward.

In recent months he has been under enormous pressure and is in the biggest crisis of his tenure. Although the investor plans are off the table, the Swiss remains controversial.