Will FIFA now reform?

Zurich-based FIFA, the world football's governing body, is being urged to clean up its act. (SRF/swissinfo.ch)

It follows the arrest of a string of officials on corruption charges. 

On Wednesday, police officers descended on the Baur au Lac hotel in Zurich, where officials had gathered for FIFA’s annual meeting.

Seven arrests were made on behalf of US authorities, after a lengthy FBI investigation. The FIFA officials face extradition to the US.

Separately, Swiss federal prosecutors said they had opened criminal proceedings in connection with the awarding of the 2018 World Cup to Russia and the 2022 tournament to Qatar. 

The votes in December 2010 led to allegations of bribery and corruption.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter is expected to be re-elected for another four-year term at the association’s annual meeting on Friday.

But critics doubt whether he can instigate the shake-up the organisation so badly needs.

Swiss politicians are advocating tighter laws on whistleblowing and corruption, and a change in the legal status of international associations such as FIFA.