Football’s calendar needs a rethink – but can FIFA deliver one that works for all?
THE INSIDER
Wild words are being thrown around: that the world governing body is more interested in “monetising” or “weaponising” the debate around a new, updated, improved international match calendar. That calendar should work equally for everyone but the evidence from a debate kicked off at FIFA Congress last May is that some sectors are more equal than others.
Everyone accepts that an improved calendar is needed. Whether that demands wholesale reform of the size and shape of international competitions – such as the World Cup which funds FIFA – is a different matter. Suspicions about the direction of travel have been exacerbated by FIFA’s rush to an indicative decision as early as December.
Why the hurry? The right answer is a matter of urgency. But more haste, less speed.
In any case the current process ignores
