FIFA President Gianni Infantino proposes a consultation on strengthening the organisation’s decision-making and governance processes — FIFA President Gianni Infantino is expected to face discussions on a proposed $6.35 billion football development fund and governance reforms ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

FIFA Plans $6.35 Billion Football Development Fund for 2026–2030

Infantino Faces Re-election Ahead of FIFA Governance Reform Discussions

By News Desk On Oct 15, 2026

WASHINGTON: (Sports Desk) – FIFA is planning to establish a $6.35 billion development fund for the 2026–2030 period, with the proposal expected to be considered at a meeting of its Council in Zurich on Thursday, according to a source familiar with the matter cited by AFP.

The proposed fund would provide financial support to FIFA’s 211 member associations and regional confederations, helping finance football development initiatives around the world. Part of the funding is expected to come from FIFA’s financial reserves following the anticipated commercial success of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to a report first published by the Associated Press, the plan would allow each of FIFA’s 211 member associations to receive $25 million. The proposed allocation would exceed the $10 million sought by two prominent critics of FIFA president Gianni Infantino: UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani.

Thursday’s Council meeting will be the first since April 28 and comes amid ongoing debate over FIFA’s governance and future direction. Infantino faced widespread opposition earlier this year after proposing to open major FIFA competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors. The proposal was ultimately dropped following resistance led by UEFA, CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation.

In late September, Infantino initiated consultations with member associations on possible reforms to FIFA’s operating structure. He indicated that initial proposals could be discussed at Thursday’s Council meeting.

Infantino, who has led FIFA since 2016, is seeking another term as president in the March 2027 election. However, his critics have yet to agree on a common candidate to challenge him.

Ceferin has opted to seek another term as UEFA president, while several media reports suggest Montagliani is also expected to pursue re-election as head of CONCACAF.

The deadline for submitting FIFA presidential candidacies is November 18, setting the stage for further discussions about the organisation’s leadership and future priorities.