GENEVA — The Premier League and La Liga have jointly urged FIFA to abandon a new reform package that they say is exploitative, according to a report by Aljazeera on 25 September 2026. The two leagues, which represent the most lucrative football markets in Europe, criticised the plan for concentrating revenue and power in the hands of a few, and called for a more transparent and equitable framework.
Leagues challenge FIFA’s proposed reforms
The Premier League, which operates a 20‑team competition in England, and La Liga, the Spanish top division, issued statements on Thursday that the proposed changes, announced earlier this year by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, would undermine the financial stability of clubs and the competitive balance of the sport. Both leagues said the plan would disproportionately benefit national associations and commercial partners at the expense of clubs and players.
In a joint communique, the leagues highlighted concerns over the allocation of broadcasting revenue, the restructuring of the international calendar, and the proposed changes to the distribution of prize money for continental competitions. They argued that the plan would create a “winner‑take‑all” model that would widen the gap between elite clubs and those in lower tiers.
FIFA’s response and the broader reform debate
FIFA has defended the package as a necessary step to modernise the sport and increase global reach. In a statement released by the governing body, officials said the reforms aim to streamline the international match calendar, improve player welfare, and enhance commercial opportunities for all stakeholders. The federation also noted that the changes were developed after consultations with national associations and club representatives.
However, the Premier League and La Liga’s criticism comes amid a growing chorus of clubs and players calling for greater transparency in FIFA’s decision‑making processes. The leagues cited past instances where reforms have been perceived as favouring commercial interests over sporting integrity.
Implications for global football governance
The call for reform follows a series of high‑profile disputes between clubs and FIFA over issues such as the scheduling of international breaks and the allocation of revenue from the FIFA Club World Cup. The Premier League, which has a long history of negotiating broadcasting deals, and La Liga, which has recently secured a multi‑year partnership with a major streaming platform, both have significant commercial interests that could be affected by the proposed changes.
Analysts say that the leagues’ united front could pressure FIFA to revisit the plan or to provide a more detailed explanation of how the reforms would be implemented. If the reforms are not revised, the leagues could consider alternative arrangements, including independent broadcasting deals or a re‑structured competition format that preserves club revenue streams.
Reactions from other stakeholders
National football associations in England and Spain have expressed support for the leagues’ concerns, with the English Football Association noting that the proposed changes could impact the financial viability of clubs across the pyramid. The Spanish Football Federation echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to revenue sharing.
Players’ unions, including the Professional Footballers’ Association in England and the Spanish Players’ Union, have called for a review of the plan’s impact on player contracts and wages. They argue that a more equitable distribution of revenue would help maintain competitive balance and protect players’ interests.
Next steps for FIFA
FIFA has scheduled a series of consultations with club representatives and national associations over the coming weeks. The governing body has also announced a working group to examine the financial implications of the proposed reforms. The Premier League and La Liga have requested that the working group include independent experts on sports economics to ensure a fair assessment.
The debate over the ‘Infantino plan’ is likely to intensify as the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches. The tournament’s commercial success and the global attention it brings to football make the issue of revenue distribution and governance particularly salient.
