As "you might expect," FIFA presidential candidate Prince Ali bin al-Hussein's manifesto "focuses on reform and transparency" but, equally, he emphasizes how FIFA could do a "better job in giving back to member nations and introduces the idea of global scholarship and exchange programs, to cross-pollinate ideas and know-how from around the globe," according to Gabriele Marcotti of ESPN. Prince Ali also talked about the "culture of fear" -- fear of repercussions for backing the "wrong horse" -- that "sometimes affects FIFA member nations." Below is an excerpt from a Q&A:
Q: You talk about a virtuous cycle; FIFA spending more on national associations -- you cite getting everyone a national stadium and up-to-date training facilities -- to ultimately grow the pie and develop the game. Can you expand upon that?
Prince Ali bin al-Hussein: What we're talking about is how [the cycle] contributes to the game. And the fact of the matter is that the greatest slice of income comes from the World Cup. But a lot of that income goes into [cash] reserves, which is understandable because the organization has to take care of itself. Having said that, the World Cup represents the whole world, so you have to reinvest it back into national associations. ... FIFA is there to serve the national associations, so that money needs to be reinvested back into the system.
Q: FIFA has in excess of $1.5 billion in cash reserves. Why do they keep so much of it locked away?
Prince Ali: That's one of the key points. We have to be responsible, but most of it should be reinvested. If our national associations are self-sustainable, then that serves the game. And that's one of the points I want to implement.
Q: There's a sense that many national associations back the current FIFA president just because the status quo suits them. How do you change that?
Prince Ali: There's a little bit of fear at how national associations are run outside of Europe. I think it's very unfair. Most of the national associations I talk to do have what's best for football foremost on their minds. But, sure, it's a lot easier for an incumbent [to reach them] because people know who the incumbent is. It's always a challenge when you're coming in as somebody new. This is the first FIFA election [in a long time] that is being contested in this way. That said, sure, there is maybe a little bit of a "culture of fear" [whereby] if they vote in a certain way and that candidate doesn't win there will be repercussions. From what I've heard, that has happened in the past. But now is the time for people to have courage and put the best interest of the game first, whoever the candidate is.
Q: You mention the "culture of fear." You're such an important figure in Asian football, yet you had to go beyond Asia to get all five of the endorsements you needed to run for president. Is this a reflection of this?
Prince Ali: Yes, for some it's easier to come out in public and make a stand than it is for others who can only do so [secretly] by ballot. That's natural. But what is important is what happens on May 29 (ESPN, 4/7).
