Steven Lowy set to quit FFA Chairman's role

Embattled Football Federation Australia (FFA) Chairman Steven Lowy has announced that he does not intend to seek reelection when his term expires in November this year.

Lowy’s decision to announce that he won't renominate for the role comes as he and members of the FFA board are fighting corporate governance changes sought by world football governing body FIFA, with Lowy objecting to recommendations from a FIFA-appointed Congress Review Working Group (CRWG).

Lowy and his father Frank Lowy, the billionaire Westfield co-founder, have been involved in promoting and investing in the sport for more than 50 years.

Speaking to Fox Sports, Lowy advised "I've decided I won't seek re-election when my term is up at the end of November.

"I had to make a decision by the end of September, but I thought it very important to let the football community know as early as possible that I've made that choice."

Seeking a model that will see state federations maintain control of the game in Australia, Lowy has been committed to preserving the independence of the FFA board which he sees as being critical to the game’s future success.

In a statement released by the FFA, Lowy advised “by removing myself from the debate I hope to encourage a proper analysis of the real issues so that an outcome can be achieved that is in the interests of the whole of the game.”

Lowy said that when he was elected chairman by a unanimous vote of all members in 2015 the game was entering a new phase but remained fragile, adding “FFA has championed efforts to expand the Congress and expand the A-League under a new operating model so it can maximise returns on investment for the game as a whole, including for the clubs.

“This remains the goal of the FFA board - to grow the game so that the A-League and W-League, as well as our grassroots, football development, the women’s game and our national teams get the resources they need to succeed here in Australia and on the world stage.”

Lowy insisted his stepping down wasn't a move to ensure the options for limited change on the Congress were agreed.

He did not indicate whether Westfield would cut its extensive sponsorship ties with the game or if he would continue in the role of Chairman if nominated by others.

Image: Steven Lowy at his press conference today.