The 72nd Ordinary Conference of the International Football Association Board (FIFA) took place in Doha last Thursday. For the first time in the past three years, President Torra represented the San Marino Football Federation at the important event, which was attended – in person or virtually – by 210 out of 211 members. The main themes, which FIFA President Gianni Infantino touched upon during his speech, were global conflicts, human rights and FIFA’s ability to unite through the power of football. “We are for inclusion, democracy and giving a voice to those who have not been heard before; for the silent majority” – commented Infantino. “We live in an aggressive and divided world, but I am a firm believer in the power of football to bring people together and overcome cultural barriers. Sport has the power to change the world. Football is the most played sport on the planet. We are not so naive as to think that football Football can solve the problems of the whole world – continues Infantino – but once this and other terrible struggles are over, hopefully very soon, football can play a small role in rebuilding relationships, as well as in establishing peace and mutual understanding. We will be in The vanguard of this ”- confirms. “I appeal to everyone with an opinion: Take it, stop wars and conflicts. Do it for our children, our future. Open up to dialogue, even with your worst enemies. Football will be there and help us work together for peace.”
Speaking about the Future Football Project, Infantino underlined FIFA’s commitment to developing football, laying the foundations for greater competitiveness at a global level, and affirming his determination to eliminate all forms of discrimination in the world of football. The positive impact and legacy of the World Cup in Qatar, the first Arab country to host the most popular international football tournament, was also discussed. His Excellency Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani (Prime Minister of Qatar) and Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (Director General of the World Health Organization) also spoke on this subject.
In the context of the 2021 FIFA Annual Report, Congress approved the 2021 financial statements and the related financial report, as well as an amendment to Article 9 of the FIFA Statutes. FIFA’s contribution to the global growth of football can also be read from its financial strength: “I am proud of the work we do, FIFA and the members. Our financial resources – comments Infantino – are excellent and it is clear that when affiliated associations intend to develop, they need resources. Despite the period In the pandemic, FIFA has not only incurred any losses, FIFA has not exceeded its target of $6.4 billion in revenue for 2022 (at the end of the calendar year, revenue is expected to reach $7 billion, editor), but it is able to invest in football. And if we can do That, it is because the governance of FIFA – confirms number one in world football – today is correct, credible, and trustworthy.This was also acknowledged by the US Department of Justice, which returned to FIFA the $201 million seized for bribing executives and officials In the organisation. This is because they believe in the new FIFA.”
More resources on the way to affiliates: “The new FIFA FORWARD Program (3.0) will ensure 25% growth. This means that each member association will receive approximately $8 million, spread over a four-year period. Compared to 2016, when it reached To the FIFA presidency, it means a sevenfold increase. Significant growth that will bring funding where it needs to go, namely in solidarity projects for the development of football. This total amount of 2.2 billion dollars will be allocated to support the development projects of individual associations.” On the eve of the draw for the final stage of the 2022 World Cup, President Infantino concluded his speech by declaring his desire to appear again in the 2023 presidential elections.
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