The unexpected resignation of Fifa president Sepp Blatter just days after his reelection shocked the world. Many have long suspected corruption at the highest levels of football’s governing body, but few expected Mr Blatter to voluntarily give up his post as a far-reaching investigation into Fifa kicked into gear.
The surprise announcement along with the continuing fraud investigation against Fifa executives in the United States will dominate conversation for the next several weeks. It is, however, time to look forward and think of constructive ways to reform the global sporting body. After all, as an international organisation, Fifa is as prominent as the United Nations or the International Olympic Committee.
Since Mr Blatter assumed Fifa’s top job 17 years ago, global football has transformed. The proliferation of interest in the sport has skyrocketed thanks to the reach of television broadcasts and the rise in satellite television. From war torn pockets of Africa to restaurants in Brooklyn, the globalisation of football has flooded the game with interest, sponsorship and, above all, money.
As football’s popularity has grown, especially with younger generations, Fifa’s head office has become more opaque and, frankly, older. There are few young executives in top positions in the Fifa hierarchy. Football is the people’s sport and increasingly the young people’s sport. Therefore, Fifa needs younger perspectives in senior positions.
Mr Blatter’s longevity as president stemmed from his ability to gain support tiny footballing countries in the Caribbean, Africa and Asia. As a result, Fifa’s system of giving one vote to countries regardless of size or stature has come under fire in recent weeks. It is unclear whether this system will be amended once Fifa has a new president but what is clear is that a number of rational reforms can be taken swiftly.
For example, the Asian confederation is far too big. Splitting up this group and creating a Middle East confederation is a logical step that could signal a new climate of reform in the organisation. Fifa has taken a big step towards rebuilding public trust and now it must look to the future instead of belabouring the past. While this might be a tall order in the interim, the future health of the sport depends on it.