France's football leaders have proposed to seek ways to transform how Fifa is run after the French Football Federation (FFF) became the latest national association to withdraw support for Gianni Infantino's presidency.
The FFF's decision, announced on Thursday, follows similar moves by England, Italy, the Republic of Ireland, and Scotland. This withdrawal of support stems from Infantino's aborted plan to sell stakes in Fifa competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors.
FFF president Philippe Diallo stated that a project with such a significant impact on football's future could not be considered without comprehensive information, in-depth consultation, and a transparent decision-making process. He added that Fifa's governance does not meet the standards football represents.
Despite Infantino abandoning his investment proposal, the FFF believes that "Fifa's governance cannot be considered resolved." The federation, a founding member of Fifa, intends to start consultations with confederations, national associations, players, supporters, and governance experts to foster collective reflection and draw up proposals for a far-reaching transformation of Fifa's governance. The aim is to restore confidence, enhance transparency, and ensure the independence and exemplary conduct of world football's governing body.
Infantino is confirmed to stand for a fourth term in the Fifa presidential election in March, despite calls for him to step down from Uefa, the Asian Football Confederation, and North American governing body Concacaf. He retains the backing of South America's Conmebol and the African governing body CAF.