In a significant move within the world of European football, UEFA has announced the departure of one of its most respected executives, Kevin Lamour. Lamour, currently serving as UEFA’s deputy general secretary, will be joining FIFA as their new chief operating officer, effective November 1st.
The 44-year-old French official has a long and distinguished career at UEFA, having held various roles since 2007. He is known for his strong advocacy for good governance within football organizations. This move to FIFA represents a reunion for Lamour, as he will be working alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom. These three previously collaborated during their time at UEFA, including Infantino’s successful campaign for FIFA presidency in 2016.
Interestingly, Lamour declined the opportunity to join FIFA back then. He later returned to UEFA after a brief departure in 2015, following the investigation into financial misconduct involving his former boss, Michel Platini, and then-FIFA President Sepp Blatter. Importantly, Lamour was not implicated in that case. Upon his return, he managed the executive office for the new UEFA president, Aleksander Ceferin.
Despite occasional tension between FIFA and UEFA under the leadership of Infantino and Ceferin, the FIFA message to staff on Wednesday emphasized a “smooth and friendly transition” in securing Lamour’s services. This move highlights a period of improved relations between the two organizations.
