Four leading European leagues demand FIFA governance reform

The heads of the Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga and Serie A called for major changes to FIFA’s governance on 25 September 2026, seeking a greater role in decisions affecting domestic football ahead of next year’s presidential election. [1] [2]

In a joint letter, the four leagues argued that those most affected by FIFA’s decisions lack meaningful involvement. They highlighted changes to the international match calendar that extend the periods during which domestic competitions must pause. [2]

The intervention follows the abandonment of FIFA Forward Enterprise, a private-investment proposal promoted by president Gianni Infantino. Deutsche Welle reported that the plan envisaged a commercial vehicle organising FIFA tournaments while maximising profits, but was dropped after opposition from UEFA, CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation. [2]

The leagues argue that withdrawing the proposal did not resolve the governance problems that allowed it to emerge. Their letter criticised Infantino’s leadership but did not call for his resignation. [1] [2]

What the leagues want

The leagues set out three structural reforms: a permanent FIFA decision-making body representing national associations, leagues, clubs and players; advance publication of the reasoning behind major decisions; and separation of FIFA’s regulatory responsibilities from its commercial activities. They want the next president to endorse these changes. [1]

They also urged presidential candidates to commit to an independently chaired governance convention within the first 100 days of the next presidential mandate. It would bring together member associations and the wider football community and be required to report publicly within six months. [1]

Infantino had already announced an independent external governance review and consultations on decision-making. The leagues acknowledged his recognition that reform was needed, but said procedural changes alone were insufficient. They called for clearer constitutional limits within FIFA and safeguards protecting individual disciplinary cases from political interference. [1] [2]

The letter also called on every presidential candidate to publish and debate a reform programme. It demanded that FIFA’s financial, legal, communications and marketing resources, along with its football development funds, remain neutral rather than give any candidate an electoral advantage. [1]

Deutsche Welle reported on 25 September that FIFA had not yet commented on the letter. [2]