How world football is governed: Fifa, Uefa and the balance of power

FIFA’s proposal to create a $20 billion subsidiary for running the World Cup and selling minority stakes has spotlighted the shifting balance of power in global football, especially between FIFA and UEFA. FIFA, founded in 1904 and based in Zurich, is overseen by 211 member associations, each with one vote at the FIFA Congress. The Congress elects the president and approves major changes, while a 37-member FIFA Council leads decisions between Congress meetings. FIFA also operates through six continental confederations—UEFA, CONMEBOL, CONCACAF, AFC, CAF and OFC—each with regional competitions and governance. UEFA, though having 55 members, generates far more commercial revenue, driving the most valuable tournaments such as the Champions League and Europa League.