Fifa explores reforms amid criticism over World Cup management

The Guardian Sport1 min read • Latest: Aug 6, 2026, 7:00 AM

Last updated Aug 6, 2026

Fifa explores reforms amid criticism over World Cup management
Summary

Fifa, led by Gianni Infantino, is facing scrutiny following its controversial handling of rule modifications during the recent World Cup. Critics argue these changes prioritized gaining attention over maintaining the integrity of the game, leading to a perceived conflict of interest. One knowledgeable source emphasizes the need for a separation between Fifa's commercial and regulatory functions to restore trust. The organization is now urged to consider significant reforms to ensure a more transparent governance structure moving forward.

Source Links
Key Details
  • Fifa is criticized for bending rules during the recent World Cup.
  • Suggestions include separating commercial and regulatory functions within Fifa.
  • The organization aims to restore integrity and trust in its governance.
Latest Updates
  • 7:00 AMThe Guardian SportHow to fix Fifa: what can be done to salvage football’s beleaguered governing body?
What they're saying
"

Gianni Infantino followed World Cup controversies with a widely scorned plan to let private investors in. Here’s how the game’s leaders can find a path forward How can an organisation that runs the biggest sporting event in the world also be the one that sets the rules for the entire game? We saw the reality of such a conflict at the recent World Cup as Fifa ran roughshod over its rulebook – be it over the length of suspensions or the duration of half-time – in an attempt to generate more attention for its competition. One person with extensive knowledge of the inside workings of Fifa puts it like this: “They have shown that they will bend the rules to make them more money. This is a big conflict of interest. Not only should the commercial and the regulatory parts of Fifa be separated, but so should the development part and possibly one or two others as well.” Continue reading...

Related Teams & Leagues

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days