Expert Speaker – Mr. Pierre Cornu, President CIES
In a remarkable session held on September 10, 2023, Mr. Pierre Cornu, President of CIES, captivated participants of the 5th edition of the PILLAI/FIFA/CIES International Programme in Sports Management with his profound insights into Governance in Sports Organizations. A seasoned professional with 26 years of experience, Mr. Cornu, formerly the Chief Counsel, Integrity and Regulatory Affairs at UEFA, provided a comprehensive overview of the principles, strategies, and missions crucial for establishing good governance.
Mr. Cornu skillfully navigated the legal and regulatory landscape required for governance, shedding light on the FIFA Code of Ethics. Drawing from his role as Senior Legal Counsel at CIES, he elaborated on the intricate structure of governing bodies, specifically the FIFA Ethics Committee, highlighting the Investigative Committee’s role in research and the Decision-making Committee’s responsibility for case outcomes.
The session also delved into real-world examples, where Mr. Cornu showcased how football clubs like PSG and Man City utilized complex governing body structures to navigate rule boundaries, especially in instances of Financial Fair Play (FFP) violations. Emphasizing the critical role of crisis management, he underscored its significance in preserving the governance of administrative sporting bodies.
With a focus on the regulatory body structure, Mr. Cornu explained the “One Member, One Vote” principle at FIFA, emphasizing equal voting weightage. The discussion extended to elections, election processes, and the terms of office for administrative positions.
Throughout the session, Mr. Cornu’s unparalleled enthusiasm infused the class with energy. His cheeky one-liners and humorous remarks added a layer of engagement to the interactive session, making it beneficial for all participants. Students were able to get a deeper understanding of governance in sports organizations through this insightful session by CIES President Pierre Cornu.
