Infantino Proposes Independent FIFA Governance Review After FFE Project Backlash

Gianni Infantino sent a letter to 211 member associations on September 21, 2026, proposing an external assessment of FIFA's governance framework.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino sent a letter on Monday, September 21, 2026, to all 211 member associations proposing an independent, external review of the organization’s governance system. The proposal, scheduled for discussion at the October 15 FIFA Council meeting, suggests a time-bound consultation with confederations to strengthen decision-making processes regarding major strategic initiatives. This move follows the failure of the "FIFA Forward Enterprise" (FFE) project, a concept where private investors would have purchased shares in the World Cup and other tournaments.

The FFE initiative faced sharp criticism after details leaked prematurely, leading several high-profile UEFA members to withdraw support and threaten boycotts of FIFA competitions. In response to the fallout, UEFA began drafting criminal charges against Infantino in U.S. courts last month, specifically seeking the release of documents related to the FFE plan. Infantino acknowledged in his letter that the lack of full context regarding the project created the impression that final decisions had been made before the institutional process was complete.

Despite the current governance crisis, Infantino stated that FIFA remains committed to exploring sustainable ways to increase resources and reinvest revenue into football. The 56-year-old president is currently preparing for a fourth term in office, with the election set for March 2027. Potential challengers have until a November 18 deadline to submit their candidacies for the leadership role.