Football needs to change now after Saudi Arabia’s unchallenged bid for the 2034 World Cup exposed the ‘failure’ at the top. The current system allows for single-candidate campaigns and individuals with immense power to shape the game for decades. The decision to award Saudi Arabia the 2034 World Cup has been met with little discussion and transparency, raising concerns about the governance of football. The bidding terms were altered to favor Saudi Arabia, requiring the construction of 10 new stadiums and raising questions about human rights and women’s rights in the country. The close relationship between Fifa president Gianni Infantino and Saudi Arabia’s crown prince Mohammed bin Salman has also raised eyebrows. Infantino’s focus on expanding the club game and securing funding for the Club World Cup has led to alliances with states from the global south, including Saudi Arabia. The lack of transparency and democratic processes in football governance is a cause for concern, with presidential elections often being single-candidate campaigns. The power invested in the role of president, combined with the influence of tournaments, creates a system prone to corruption and personal rivalries. The current governance model needs to evolve to ensure fair and transparent decision-making in the future.
Why Football Needs to Change Now: Exposing the Failure at the Top
