Infantino apologises to FIFA council as critics demand deeper reforms

FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed the world football body's council on Tuesday, apologising to members during a marathon session that stretched beyond three hours. The extended meeting reflected the depth of concerns among council representatives regarding the organisation's leadership and operational practices.

While Infantino's apology represented an acknowledgement of grievances, critics within the council signalled dissatisfaction with the response. Opponents have called for more substantive action and concrete reforms to address systemic issues that have plagued the organisation, suggesting that words alone would prove insufficient to restore confidence.

The meeting highlighted the fractured state of FIFA's leadership as it navigates persistent questions about transparency, governance standards, and accountability mechanisms. Council members expressed divergent views on the path forward, with some viewing the apology as a necessary first step while others demanded immediate structural changes.

The session underscores broader challenges facing the international football federation as it seeks to rebuild trust following years of controversy. The depth and duration of the council meeting suggested these tensions will continue shaping FIFA's agenda in the coming weeks.