Football News Update: FIFA to Relocate Paris Office After Staff Exodus
In a significant development in the world of football, FIFA is set to leave its prestigious Hôtel de la Marine offices in Paris after only three years and relocate to smaller premises in the French capital. This decision comes as a result of a sharp decline in staff numbers, with the organization’s Paris bureau experiencing a more than 50% reduction in personnel since its opening in 2021.
The Hôtel de la Marine bureau, inaugurated by French President Emmanuel Macron, was one of 12 established by FIFA as part of its “ambition to make football truly global.” Paris, where FIFA was founded in 1904 and headquartered until 1932, was chosen as the location for this office, which was intended to serve as a base for the organization’s football development activities, including the FIFA Forward programme.
“The plan to attract international federations to France by offering tax benefits has been heavily criticized and ultimately ruled unconstitutional by the French constitutional council in December.”
This has led to the departure of dissatisfied staff, with only five of the original 35 employees still in their positions, and fewer than half being replaced.
Insiders have revealed that FIFA will move out of the Hôtel de la Marine at the end of the month and relocate to smaller offices on the Place de la Concorde. This decision is a result of the significant drop in staff numbers, as the organization’s commercial services had also been relocated to Paris.
In response to the news, a FIFA spokesperson did not deny the plan to move premises, stating that the organization “will base its strategic decisions about employees and office on the clarity of the French statutes for international federations.“
When the Paris bureau was opened in 2021, FIFA President Gianni Infantino spoke of the “huge significance” of the organization’s return to the city, highlighting its cosmopolitan nature, connectivity, and the recent hosting of the FIFA Women’s World Cup. However, the challenges faced by FIFA in Paris have now led to this decision to downsize and relocate its operations.
As the football world continues to evolve, this development within FIFA‘s global presence will be closely watched by enthusiasts and stakeholders alike. Stay tuned for further updates on this story and other key events in the world of football, including the UEFA Euro 2024, Champions League, FIFA World Cup, Women’s World Cup, Africa Cup of Nations, Premier League, EFL Cup, EFL Championship, EFL One, EFL Two, and FA Cup.
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