From Scandal to Reform: Is FIFA Changing?
Description
The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar wasn’t just about football—it became a global lightning rod for debates on corruption, governance, and ethics in sport. In this episode, Dr. Michael Duignan speaks with Dr. Christina Philippou, whose research examines FIFA’s governance reforms and whether scandals can spark meaningful change. Together, they unpack the complex story behind Qatar’s controversial bid, the bribery allegations that reshaped FIFA’s leadership, and the compliance reforms that followed—including the introduction of risk registers, transparency measures, and a sport-wide compliance handbook. But have these reforms truly changed FIFA, or has progress stalled? Christina explores the structural issues that enable corruption, the role of sponsors and governments in applying pressure, and what independent oversight could look like. Essential listening for anyone interested in sports governance, institutional accountability, and the future of mega-event hosting.
United States
