Fifa approves reform package, delays World Cup expansion
The executive committee approves a package of planned reforms aimed at cleaning up soccer’s scandal-plagued world governing body
Fifa’s executive committee approved a package of planned reforms on Thursday aimed at cleaning up soccer’s scandal-plagued world governing body, proposing term limits for senior officials and increased representation for women.
The proposals, which would also reduce the power of the executive committee, will be presented in February to Fifa’s Congress, which has the power to alter the statutes.
These reforms are moving Fifa towards improved governance, greater transparency and more accountability
At the same time, the executive committee delayed a decision on a controversial proposal to expand the World Cup from 32 to 40 teams.
“These reforms are moving Fifa towards improved governance, greater transparency and more accountability,” Fifa’s acting president, Issa Hayatou, said.
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“They mark a milestone on our path towards restoring Fifa’s credibility as a modern, trusted and professional sports organisation.”
Under the proposals, Fifa’s president and leading officials would be restricted to three terms of four years each, and would be subjected to centralised integrity checks before assuming office.