FAW chief Noel Mooney questions FIFA reform claims

Football Association of Wales chief executive Noel Mooney has downplayed reports suggesting that FIFA is preparing for major structural reforms. Speaking about a letter sent by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, Mooney clarified that the proposed review does not address the core operations of the organization.

According to Mooney, the communication from FIFA focuses on examining decision-making processes and consultation methods regarding specific strategic projects rather than a wider overhaul. The clarification comes amid ongoing scrutiny regarding a previously aborted proposal that would have invited private investors to buy stakes in World Cup competitions.

The Welsh FA remains a vocal critic of the current leadership, having previously withdrawn support for Infantino. Mooney argued that FIFA should prioritize investing its existing multi-billion dollar reserves into the game rather than seeking private equity.

With the FIFA president, you're looking for a moral guardian of the game. You're not looking for somebody to sell off parts of the game. Noel Mooney

Mooney has also consistently called for a greater share of tournament revenue to be distributed to national associations, highlighting the massive growth in income between the Qatar and 2026 World Cups. The FAW has confirmed it will not endorse Infantino's bid for a fourth term in 2027.