FIFA sponsor Coca-Cola has told soccer’s governing body to appoint an independent commission to lead the reform process required to clean up the scandal-ridden organization.
The soft drinks giant wrote to FIFA asking for a third-party commission, overseen by “one or more eminent, impartial leaders,” to look at how the organization can regain its credibility and the trust of fans.
The most significant intervention yet by a FIFA sponsor was revealed in a letter to The International Trade Union Confederation, which is part of the New FIFA Now movement. Coca-Cola has sponsored FIFA since 1974 with its branding prominent at World Cups.
FIFA is still reeling from the indictment of 14 people in a U.S. investigation into soccer corruption, including two of world soccer’s now-ousted vice presidents.
Four days after being re-elected, Sepp Blatter announced plans last month to quit as FIFA president. FIFA’s executive committee will decide on an election date at a meeting on Monday.
