Ex-footballers demand FIFA changes amid private investment crisis

A group of former footballers, spearheaded by Frenchman Mikaël Silvestre, has demanded a "change" within FIFA, which they say is mired in a crisis after a failed attempt to attract private investment for its tournaments, including the World Cup. The former players voiced their concerns in a statement shared on social media, asserting that "power has clouded the current leadership's ability to distinguish between their own interests and what is truly best for football."

The statement, written in three languages and initiated by Silvestre, who also leads an anti-racism panel for ex-players within FIFA, has garnered support from other prominent figures. It argues that "we share the same concerns as millions of fans around the world. Like them, we have seen the sport we love drift away from its fundamental values under FIFA's current leadership."

While not directly naming FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the former players' message clearly targets the leadership's decisions. They lament that "for too long, we have seen important decisions made without consulting or considering the players, and without considering the fans who sustain this sport." The statement concludes with a strong call to action: "The events of recent times have made it impossible to remain silent any longer. Enough is enough," urging "all football stakeholders" to "step forward and help redefine the future of our sport."

The footballers' demands echo those of a coalition of fan associations that recently called for a "fundamental reform" of FIFA. Despite calls for his resignation, Infantino remains determined to seek re-election in March 2027. However, his support appears to be waning, with several national associations, including Gibraltar, England, Ireland, Wales, Israel, Sweden, and New Zealand, reportedly withdrawing their backing.