Statement attributable to the FIFA President
The FIFA Forward Enterprise project was intended to provide a basis for further strengthening our FIFA Member Associations and our sport worldwide, especially in those countries where support is most needed. And more so, as we said from the outset, to do this only if a majority of the FIFA Member Associations were in support and always subject to a consultation process with them, the FIFA Council, the Confederations and wider stakeholders.
Having listened carefully to all the views, it has become clear that the project has created divisions of a nature that, regardless of the level of support, are no longer in the interest of the objective set out in the first place.
Our purpose has always been - and will always be - to unite and improve.
As a result, this proposal will not proceed.
Moving forward, my intent is to bring all interested parties back together in the coming days and weeks in the spirit of shared interest in our game, and with the objective to continue growing football everywhere, particularly in those countries that mostly need our support.
Sad news from Italy as Franco Baresi has passed away this morning at 66 years old.
An absolute legend of the game with AC Milan and Italy, marking an era for different generations.
Thoughts and prayers with the family and the friends.
Rest in peace, Franco. ❤️🕊️
🚨⚪️ Roberto De Zerbi: “I never called Cuti Romero to convince him to stay. I respected what he told me. Same for Guglielmo Vicario”, says via @AlasdairGold.
Both are expected to leave in the next weeks.
🚨🔵 BREAKING: Roberto Mancini has agreed to become new Italy head coach, here we go! 🇮🇹
New project set to start after president Malagò stopped Pirlo deal at signatures due to his collaboration with Russian brands.
Mancini, back soon. 🔙
🚨🇮🇹 Paolo Maldini and Leonardo RESIGN from their roles as Italy Federation technical director and advisor.
Decision to leave the project just 10 days after joining due to president Malagò being against appointing Andrea Pirlo as new head coach for Italian national team.
The president didn’t approve Pirlo due to his connections with Russian brands; Maldini and Leonardo only wanted Pirlo and leave their roles immediately.