FIFA president opens door on potential reforms as investment plan fallout continues

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has signaled an openness to reform, saying in a letter sent Monday, Sept. 21 that he will poll leadership about an external review and speak with members about the organization's structure.

The letter, seen by The Athletic and other media organizations, was sent to the FIFA Council and to the presidents of FIFA's 211 member associations.

“First, I will ask the Council whether it wishes to commission an independent external review of FIFA’s current governance framework for major strategic initiatives and recommend potential improvements,” he wrote.

“Second, I will propose that the Council establish a direct, structured and time-limited consultation with confederations, Member Associations and relevant stakeholders on how FIFA’s decision-making can be further strengthened.

“The consultation would invite specific proposals on earlier institutional involvement, the respective roles of the President, the Bureau, the Council and the Congress, and practical ways to strengthen transparency, participation and accountability in major strategic initiatives.”

The council, made up of 37 members from around the world, is set to meet Oct. 15 in Zurich, Switzerland.

The letter comes days after the presidents of UEFA and Concacaf – the governing bodies for soccer in Europe and North America, Central America and…

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/sports/