FIFA President Gianni Infantino has proposed an independent external review of how FIFA handles major strategic initiatives, after backlash over an abandoned plan to sell a 20% stake in a FIFA-controlled commercial company holding rights including the World Cup. The plan was withdrawn in July after opposition and boycott threats, and UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation and CONCACAF subsequently called for changes to FIFA’s leadership. Infantino said the proposal was disclosed before it could be fully presented to the FIFA Council and member associations, creating the impression that a decision had already been made, although it remained subject to approval. He will also propose consultations on decision-making, transparency and accountability, including the roles of the president, Bureau, Council and Congress. Suggestions submitted by the October 15 Council meeting could be discussed there, while any changes to FIFA’s statutes would require Congress approval. Infantino said member associations would not be treated differently because of their positions on proposals or governance matters, and that development and solidarity programs would continue under existing rules.