Simon Åström, a candidate for the presidency of the Swedish Football Association, emphasizes his deep roots in grassroots football, contrary to the perception of him as solely focused on the elite levels of the sport. He underscores his extensive experience at various levels of football, from playing and refereeing as a youth to leading Örebro SK as CEO. He acknowledges the perception of his current activities as campaigning but strives to differentiate between his role as a candidate and his existing responsibilities within the football association. Nominated by several districts and clubs, Åström appears confident in his potential victory, suggesting he wouldn’t have run if a vigorous campaign was necessary. He sits on the current board and maintains he has always advocated for what he believes is right, even if it differed from the final decision. Åström prioritizes collaborative leadership, inclusivity, and broad consultation, emphasizing the need for a unified approach within the football community.
Åström acknowledges a need for change within the board, stressing the importance of building strong teams and aligning the entire football movement toward shared goals. He recognizes that his leadership style, focused on consensus-building, may sometimes slow down decision-making but believes it ultimately yields greater overall impact. He cites the recent joint bid with Denmark to host the 2029 European Championship, made without full board consultation, as an example of situations requiring swift decisions. While acknowledging the need for leadership to take initiative and drive progress, he stresses the importance of respecting formal processes and member mandates. He notes the concerns of district representatives accustomed to presidents emerging from their ranks, acknowledging the potential skepticism towards a perceived ”elite-oriented” leader.
Åström’s background includes years as CEO of Örebro SK and a deep involvement in grassroots football, contrasting with the image some hold of him. He considers the synergy between grassroots and elite football crucial for the sport’s development in Sweden. He prioritizes broad participation, advocating for “as many as possible, for as long as possible,” aiming to maximize player retention and create a larger pool for talent identification. He acknowledges the conflicting trend of early selection and academies in elite clubs, driven by the increasing importance of player sales. Åström believes that dialogue and mutual understanding are key to balancing these perspectives. He sees elite clubs as a vital resource within the football ecosystem and recognizes their need to operate within the global football industry. However, he emphasizes their responsibility to avoid negatively impacting lower-level clubs through excessive or premature talent acquisition.
The current situation within the Swedish Football Association is complex, with the recent dismissal of the general secretary after months of criticism regarding leadership and working conditions. Åström, as a board member, accepts responsibility for past decisions but emphasizes his commitment to advocating for positive change. He stresses the importance of learning from past experiences and building a positive working environment where staff feel valued and can utilize their skills effectively. While respecting the confidentiality of board discussions, he reiterates his commitment to advocating for what he believes is right.
Åström’s approach to international engagement emphasizes broad discussion and consensus within the Swedish football community. He believes decisions on international football politics should reflect clear objectives for influence and uphold Swedish values. He advocates for broad consultation and alignment within the movement regarding international engagement strategy. Regarding the use of Video Assistant Referees (VAR), a technology almost universally adopted except in Sweden, Åström highlights the international attention this has garnered. He notes the positive dialogue and interest from other leagues impressed by Sweden’s democratic handling of the issue, viewing it as a testament to the strength of the Swedish model. He acknowledges the unique position Sweden holds on this issue but emphasizes the importance of internal democratic processes.
The upcoming election on March 22nd will decide whether Fredrik Reinfeldt, the incumbent president, or Simon Åström will lead the Swedish Football Association. The nomination committee’s recommendation holds considerable weight, with Reinfeldt stating he will withdraw if not endorsed. Åström’s candidacy presents a choice between continuity and a new direction, with his emphasis on grassroots development, collaborative leadership, and a more inclusive approach to decision-making offering a potential contrast to the current administration. The election outcome holds significant implications for the future of Swedish football, impacting everything from player development pathways to international engagement strategies.
