Transparency International calls for Fifa reforms after bribery scandal

Transparency International has called on Fifa to carry out reforms in the wake of the bribery scandal that overshadowed the recent presidential election.

They want the reforms overseen by a group of representatives from both inside and outside Fifa to ensure independence.

The group will also watch over an independent investigation of existing corruption allegations within the body and Sylvia Schenk, senior advisor on sport to Transparency International, believes crucial steps have to be made.

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Schenk said: “Fifa says it wants to reform, but successive bribery scandals have left public trust in it at an all-time low.

“Working with an oversight group – taking its advice, giving it access, letting it participate in investigations – will show whether there is going to be real change. The process has to start now.”

Fifa has been rocked this year by allegations of corruption at the very top of the organisation with former presidential candidate Mohamed Bin Hammam found guilty of trying to buy votes in the election, although he has appealed this decision.

Transparency International has called on the national football officials from each of the 208 member countries to support the reforms and the organisations integrity.

Schenk continued: “Leaders in the world of sport have a particular responsibility to behave with integrity, not just because sports like football face corruption challenges such as match-fixing, but because sport provides role models for people everywhere, especially young people.

“When an organisation says it wants to change, TI stands ready to provide constructive advice. Now that we have laid out clear, straightforward steps, it’s up to Fifa to prove its commitment to transparency and accountability.”