May 27 – World federation FIFA has launched a consultation on the future of the game, focusing on the congested match calendar, fan experience and laws of the game.
In a bid to address discontent across the football pyramid following the rise and fall of the European Super League, and demonstrate engagement with fans across the world, Zurich will consult stakeholders across the industry and beyond to debate football’s future as the sport seeks to emerge from its biggest post-war crisis.
FIFA’s chief of global football development and former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger will lead the study.
At FIFA’s 71stCongress last week, president Gianni Infantino indicated that he is open to reshaping the global calendar and rethinking the future of the organisation’s flagship competitions as well as motivated in his frequently expressed desire to make the game “truly global”.
FIFA wants to maintain that ‘open mind’ in the consultation. Zurich, saying in a press release: “The aim is to conduct a comprehensive analysis taking into account the diverse views and interests of global football, with no predetermined objectives, and with an open mind in search of better solutions for the common good of the game.”
The global governing body listed a number key areas that the consultation will focus on, including global competitive balance, laws of the game and technology, and fan experience. Zurich noted that a first brainstorming session has been held with top players and coaches from around the world participating.
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