Argentine Football Association extends support to FIFA prez Infantino, work done under his tenure
Buenos Aires, August 7
The Argentine Football Association extended its support to FIFA president Gianni Infantino and the work done under him during the last 10 years, pointing out that the main focus was the "development of football throughout the world and institutional strength based on a clear, stable and transparent governance model."
Infantino has received support from one of the most powerful associations in the world as he battles to retain his presidency ahead of the elections in Morocco next year. The FIFA Forward Enterprise, aiming at bringing outside participation/investment in FIFA-related competitions, had invited the wrath and words of concern from massive football bodies like UEFA, FA, CONCACAF, among others, and was withdrawn following the backlash.
Soon, in another statement, Infantino and FIFA General Secretary Mattias Grafstromapologised for the errors and pledged that they would not be repeated, a review would be done, and findings would be submitted to the FIFA Council during the next meeting.
Responding to it, AFA has now written in a statement, "On behalf of the Argentine Football Association (AFA), and its Executive Committee, we address you, dear President, and through you, the FIFA board, to express our support for the management carried out during the last 10 years, which had as its main focuses the development of football throughout the world and institutional strength based on a clear, stable and transparent governance model."
"In this regard, with respect to the recent events that are public knowledge, we must acknowledge the Administration's decision to withdraw a project that, within the football family and from its inception, generated far more uncertainties than certainties."
"Therefore, it is worth highlighting the acknowledgement of the errors made in that process and the apology expressed in the heartfelt message sent to FIFA's 211 member associations. Prioritising governance standards is a fundamental pillar for strengthening good relations between FIFA, its member associations, and the confederations," the statement continued.
AFA said that Infantino is leading a management that has brought a "profound transformation of FIFA; that has opened the doors of the organisation to all member associations and confederations", so that through frank and direct dialogue, football at all levels and disciplines could be promoted.
AFA said that the transformation brought under Infantino was based on a "transparent governance model, respect for statutory structures, and adherence to democratic procedures--essential principles for the football family to be united, strong, and working to continue generating improvements in both sporting and institutional aspects, which translate into a better quality of life for millions of people who practice our beloved sport."
"Therefore, given the proximity of the next FIFA Congress, the Association that I (AFA president Claudio Tapia) proudly preside over firmly believes and reaffirms that the way forward is to continue working under its leadership, in order to continue developing a better and even more inclusive football," the statement concluded.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good thing they withdrew that private investment plan after the backlash. Football's governance should not become a corporate playground. Indian football fans have seen enough of rich clubs ruining the sport's spirit.
It is a smart move by Infantino to get AFA's backing. The support from South America could be crucial. But this whole thing shows that even big football bodies can make mistakes. Transparency is the only way forward.
The gentleman acknowledges his mistakes, which is more than what many leaders do. Let’s see if the review they promised leads to actual change. Football needs unity, not constant fighting between confederations.
Finally some support for Infantino. The FIFA Forward scheme has helped smaller nations develop their infrastructure. In India too, the past decade has seen more grassroots football development than ever before. Acknowledge the good work!
The apology is noted, but we need real independent oversight. The original plan seemed aimed at enriching a few. It's good that they pulled it, but let’s not pretend that such pressure won’t happen again. Keep watch!
Football is more than business. I appreciate that AFA is focusing on development, especially for women's football and youth programs. Infantino
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