Gianni Infantino celebrates ten years as Fifa president while reshaping global football governance and finances worldwide

This year marks ten years since Gianni Infantino was elected president of Fifa, stepping in to rescue the organization from scandal and financial chaos.

What began as a mission to restore trust in football’s world governing body has transformed into a decade of reform, expansion, and controversy.

Taking the Helm Amid Crisis

Infantino took over after Sepp Blatter resigned amid corruption allegations that had rocked Fifa.

Reports suggested a $550 million financial shortfall after sponsors abandoned the organization.

Infantino, previously UEFA’s general secretary, was seen as a stabilizing figure, promising: “I will work tirelessly to bring football back to Fifa, and Fifa back to football.”

Over the decade, he has delivered substantial growth.

Fifa now expects record revenues of $13 billion for the three-year cycle ending this year.

But much of that growth comes from controversial initiatives, such as the expanded World Cup and the new Club World Cup, which have stirred debate among players, fans, and European football authorities.

Early Reforms and Ambitious Expansion

Infantino’s first steps involved doubling development funding for member associations and expanding the World Cup.

Initially campaigning for a 40-team tournament, he quickly secured approval for 48 teams.

He also implemented programs to help smaller nations cover travel, infrastructure, and competitions.

The election itself was tightly contested.

Infantino narrowly beat Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa, ultimately securing 115 votes to 88 after reallocation of votes from other candidates.

His campaign emphasized transparency, development, and the proper use of Fifa funds for football rather than personal gain.

Controversy on the Global Stage

The 2018 Russia World Cup and 2022 Qatar World Cup presented Infantino with his first major public challenges.

Criticized over workers’ rights, modern slavery claims, and human rights concerns, he defended the host nations aggressively, using high-profile speeches to counter criticism.

His famous line during Qatar: “Today I feel Qatari… I feel like a migrant worker” captured global attention.

Infantino’s public visibility increased during these tournaments, with reports suggesting that television directors were instructed to feature him prominently at every match.

Expanding Tournaments and Criticism

After promising a summer Club World Cup, Infantino faced delays but eventually launched the tournament in 2025 in the United States, despite criticism that players’ unions were not consulted.

He also oversaw the allocation of 2030 and 2034 World Cups, effectively awarding Saudi Arabia 2034, a decision criticized by Norway and other federations for bypassing competitive bidding.

His salary also increased substantially, from 1.3 million pounds in 2016 to over 2.3 million pounds, with additional bonuses.

Fifa investigations later confirmed that past executives under Blatter had received far higher bonuses, making Infantino’s compensation comparatively modest by historical standards.

Global Investments and Legacy

Despite controversies, Infantino has enriched smaller football nations, delivering billions in infrastructure, development, and operational support through programs like Fifa Forward.

Funding has increased by 30% in the latest cycle, with additional allocations for member associations and confederations worldwide.

Re-elected unopposed in 2019 and 2023, Infantino remains in a strong position ahead of the 2027 election, thanks in part to support from regions benefiting most from Fifa’s financial expansion.

What’s Next

Infantino will continue steering Fifa as it navigates post-Qatar World Cups, expanded Club World Cups, and global football development.

Critics will watch for governance issues, ticket pricing strategies, and transparency in awarding tournaments.

The 2027 election will test his unchallenged authority, but with his financial record and international support, a serious challenger is unlikely.

Summary

Gianni Infantino has spent ten years reshaping Fifa, turning it from a scandal-ridden organization into a financially robust governing body.

While his presidency has brought record revenues, expanded tournaments, and global investment, it has also sparked controversy over human rights, governance, and ticket pricing.

Infantino remains firmly in control, with a legacy defined by both reform and debate, preparing for another possible term in 2027.