adminSikhumbuzo Moyo Senior Sports Reporter
FIFA will soon split into two major operational divisions in efforts aimed at reforming the world football governing body and rebuilding its reputation after the recent scandal that rocked the organisation.
In a communiqué to all its member associations, Fifa secretary-general Fatma Samoura said the organisation would be split into two distinct parts; one side dedicated to football development and the execution of football operations, while the other side will be exclusively dedicated to revenue generation, commercial activities and administrative support.
“This separation of responsibilities will remove operational inefficiencies and uncertainty by consolidating the running of Fifa as a business – incentivised to maximise revenue and efficiency. This will help to ensure that Fifa fulfils its overarching mission. In addition to removing operational inefficiencies, the separation of responsibilities will effectively support the integrity and transparency of Fifa’s commercial processes,” Samoura wrote in her communiqué dated July 15.
The Senegalese national said Fifa will be structured so as to take the best advantage of the opportunities “in front of us, to fulfil our obligations to our stakeholders, and to deliver on our mandate as world football’s governing body”.
Meanwhile, Fifa’s development committee recently agreed to put in motion the Forward programme that will see national associations receiving $5 million in funding meant for various football capital projects.
The Forward programme aims to provide 360-degree, tailor-made support for developing football.
“Fifa will significantly increase financial support for football development, from $1.6 million to $5 million per four-year cycle for each member association. The confederations will now receive $40 million per four-year cycle, up from $22 million,” reads a statement from Fifa.
Member associations, including Zifa, have since been urged to apply for these developmental funds.
Online Reporter