Fatma Samoura Steps Down As FIFA Secretary General

Fatma Samoura, FIFA Secretary General, will leave her role at the end of the year after seven years

During that time Samoura has played a pivotal role in transforming the organisation, restoring its credibility, and breaking down barriers.

“It was the best decision of my life to join FIFA,” she said in a statement. “I am very proud to have led such a diverse team. My first word of thanks goes to Gianni Infantino for giving me this dream job.

“FIFA today is a better governed, more open, more reliable and more transparent organisation. I will leave FIFA with a high sense of pride and fulfilment.

“I had intended to share my news first with the FIFA Council members next week but I am aware there has been growing speculation about my position in recent months.

“For now, I am fully focused on the preparation and delivery of the upcoming Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. I look forward to spending the next six months bringing to life the 11 objectives that President Infantino announced at the FIFA Congress in Kigali in March.”

FIFA President Gianni Infantino, said: “It has been a privilege and an honour to work with a trailblazer in the game.

“Ever since we met, I knew she would be superb for FIFA. Her passion and enthusiasm to drive change has been inspirational. Fatma was the first woman, and the first African, to be appointed to such an important position at FIFA.

“We respect Fatma’s decision, and I would like to thank her for such dedication and commitment to football. Fatma will continue to contribute towards the development of the game and its social values together with us.”