Infantino Calls for Dialogue and Respect as FIFA Governance Talks Continue

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has called for more dialogue and mutual respect within football's governing bodies, speaking after attending the opening matches of the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup in Jeddah.

The tournament got underway on Wednesday, coinciding with Saudi National Day celebrations. In the day's results, hosts Saudi Arabia beat Kuwait 1-0 at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, while Iraq and Oman played out a 1-1 draw earlier at Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Sports City Stadium.

While at the opening games, Infantino used social media to share his thoughts on the ongoing governance discussions taking place across FIFA, following a letter he sent to the FIFA Council proposing reforms. He stressed the importance of working together with all 211 member associations.

"There must be a culture of dialogue, of listening to each other and respecting one another," he wrote on Instagram. "This is not about generating positive headlines, it is about doing what is right for the game. I have never been more determined and committed in doing that. FIFA is always engaged. I am always engaged and want to hear how we can continue to grow football for the benefit of everybody, everywhere."

This year's tournament is significant for organisers, marking the first time Jeddah has hosted the Arabian Gulf Cup. Eight nations are competing, including Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Yemen.

Infantino also thanked several local officials for their role in hosting the event, including Gulf Football Federation president Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al-Thani and leaders from the Saudi Arabian Football Federation. He said the response to his proposed FIFA reforms has so far been positive from around the world.

"I was delighted to witness one of the opening matches of the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup, especially as it is the first time that this great tournament has been staged in Jeddah," he said. "My thanks go to the Gulf Football Federation, under the leadership of His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al-Thani, to our hosts, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation and President Bader bin Sulaiman Al-Reztiza, Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region, Prince Saud Bin Mishaal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Saudi Arabian Sports Minister, Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, and FIFA Council Member, Yasser Al Misehal. I also extend my best wishes to the eight competing teams who are sure to give their all for their great fans located across the region and beyond."

Discussions around FIFA's proposed governance reforms are set to continue when the FIFA Council meets next month, where officials will go through feedback gathered from member associations across every continent.

Meanwhile, the Arabian Gulf Cup continues in Jeddah, with the eight competing nations looking to make their mark in front of passionate home crowds.