Fifa secretary general Fatma Samoura is to step down after seven years with the world governing body so as to spend more time with her family.

The 60-year-old, who was appointed in 2016, will oversee this year’s Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand before leaving her position at the end of the year.

“It was the best decision of my life to join Fifa,” says Samoura. “I am very proud to have led such a diverse team. My first word of thanks goes to Gianni Infantino for giving me this dream job. He has shown trust, understanding, and an incredible level of support. It is a pleasure to work alongside someone that has transformed Fifa.”

She continued: “Fifa today is a better governed, more open, more reliable, and more transparent organisation. I will leave Fifa with a high sense of pride and fulfillment.

“I had intended to share my news first with the Fifa Council members next week, but I am aware there has been growing speculation about my position in recent months. For now, I am fully focused on the preparation and delivery of the upcoming Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.”

Fifa president Infantino paid tribute to Samoura: “It has been a privilege and an honour to work with a trailblazer in the game,” he added. “Ever since we met, I knew she would be superb for Fifa.

“Her passion and enthusiasm to drive change has been inspirational. Fatma will continue to contribute towards the development of the game and its social values together with us.”

Samoura arrived at Fifa with more than two decades of experience working for the United Nations where she served in seven countries: Djibouti, Cameroon, Chad, Guinea, Niger, Madagascar, and Nigeria.