Vesel replaces Scala at FIFA

FIFA has appointed Tomaz Vesel as the new independent chairperson of its Audit and Compliance Committee.

The Slovenian replaces Domenico Scala, who resigned in May expressing concern that the autonomy of FIFA’s independent committees was being eroded as part of the governing body’s sweeping reforms.

His decision to give up his post was widely seen as an attack on new FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s apparent influence over independent officials.

Scala was subsequently criticised by Infantino, who expressed disappointment at not being informed of the news personally, while FIFA accused Scala of making “unfounded claims which are baseless”.

Announcing the hire of Vesel, Infantino said in a statement: “The appointment of Mr Vesel as independent chairperson of FIFA’s Audit and Compliance Committee is an important development in the ongoing effort to strengthen FIFA’s governance and compliance systems.

“This is a vital role within the organisation and Mr Vesel’s audit expertise and international experience will help reassure stakeholders and restore trust in FIFA.”