Four of Europe's biggest football leagues -- the Premier League, La Liga, the Bundesliga and Serie A -- have issued a joint statement demanding fundamental governance reform at FIFA amid Gianni Infantino's re-election bid. The leagues criticized Infantino for promoting 'abusive initiatives' rather than protecting football, specifically condemning his withdrawn 'FIFA Forward Enterprise' plan to sell World Cup stakes to private investors.

The statement accused FIFA of 'relentless expansionism' and making 'far-reaching decisions' without stakeholder consultation, including expanding the International Match Calendar. The leagues called for a new governance structure featuring a permanent body representing national associations, clubs, and players with meaningful input into FIFA decisions.

The controversy follows opposition from UEFA, Concacaf, and the Asian Football Confederation, with UEFA threatening a boycott and pursuing legal action. Infantino has vowed to run again in 2027 despite the backlash, acknowledging the need for reform but facing criticism that superficial changes are insufficient. FIFA presidential elections are scheduled for March 2027 in Morocco.