A Change at the Top Every Two Years? What a Rotational FIFA Presidency Could Look Like

Despite the turbulence following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup in America, Gianni Infantino remains at the helm of FIFA. However, opposition continues to exert constant pressure on the international body's chief, which could lead to his resignation in the coming months. Calls are already emerging for the introduction of a rotational FIFA presidency starting in 2027.

Could the FIFA president's powers be curtailed? Absolutely. Since the end of the 2026 World Cup in July, Gianni Infantino has faced sharp criticism over his failed project to establish a commercial entity around the global tournament. Following press revelations, an opposition has formed, particularly in Europe, aiming to force the FIFA president to withdraw from the presidential race scheduled for next March in Morocco.

The opposition is considering several measures to implement a vision distinct from Gianni Infantino's. One idea is the introduction of a rotational presidency, which would end the model of a permanent president concentrating all power, as is currently the case with Infantino.

According to this concept, primarily discussed within UEFA, the FIFA presidential post could rotate every two years. This would allow different confederations to take leadership of the organization and shape global football policy. "Six months or a year is too short a period to implement ideas, reforms, and set a vision for FIFA," explains a well-informed source from European circles. The final duration of the term has not yet been determined, but a period of around two years is being discussed.

This change would enable all confederations to hold significant influence for a defined period. The idea is inspired by the rotational presidency of the European Union. It would also limit the powers of the FIFA president and prevent a repeat of incidents like the commercial entity created without consultation with the organization's senior leadership, which caused significant discontent within the body. Such a reform would also restore the importance of the FIFA Council, which in recent years has become a mere rubber-stamping body without real power.