Infantino Calls for Mutual Respect Ahead of FIFA Reform Talks in October

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has called for a renewed culture of dialogue, mutual listening, and mutual respect ahead of anticipated institutional reforms. In an Instagram post published Thursday, he emphasized that the priority is not generating positive headlines but taking correct action for football.

Background to the Reform Initiative

Infantino stated he has never been more determined or committed than he is now to advancing the sport. He affirmed FIFA’s continuous engagement—and his own—and expressed his desire to listen to perspectives on how football can be further developed to benefit everyone, everywhere. Earlier, he had sent a message to the FIFA Council and national associations, underscoring his openness to change.

He reported receiving positive feedback on that message from multiple regions worldwide and stressed the importance of continuing to listen to one another.

Mounting Pressure and Reversal of Proposal

Infantino has faced intensifying scrutiny over recent weeks. Critics accused him of maintaining an unusually close relationship with the U.S. president, whose country hosted the majority of matches during the tournament held last June and July.

Widespread calls for his resignation followed his proposal to sell portions of World Cup rights to private-sector investors linked to the Trump circle. Accusations emerged that he had not shared the proposal with several senior FIFA officials. In response to the backlash, Infantino withdrew the idea.

Rebuilding Trust Ahead of 2025 Election

His current outreach—centered on reform discussions—is part of a broader effort to restore confidence across the global football community. The reform proposals are scheduled for formal discussion at the next FIFA Council meeting in October. Infantino is set to stand for re-election as FIFA president in March next year.