Odds offered by Paddy Power suggest FIFA President Gianni Infantino is likely to retain his position by the end of the year, despite significant criticism of his proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors. The bookmaker has Infantino at 1/4 odds to remain president, with the next FIFA election scheduled for March 2027. He is listed at 3/1 not to be in charge by December 31.

The controversy stems from a leaked proposal detailing FIFA's aim to generate £3.1 billion through private investment by selling portions of the World Cup and the Club World Cup. This plan has faced opposition from UEFA, CONCACAF, and the AFC, as well as a resignation from senior advisor Carlos Cordeiro.

In response to the proposal and FIFA's pursuit of outside investment, Paddy Power placed a "FOR SALE" sign outside FIFA headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland. The sign read: "To anyone – anyone – with money, power and a willingness to endure Gianni’s small talk." The promotional stunt was publicized on social media.

A Paddy Power spokesperson commented on the situation, stating, "Astronomical ticket prices. Inflated hotel room rates. A diabolical half-time show. Just when you think you’ve seen it all from Gianni Infantino, he goes and puts the World Cup on the market." The spokesperson added, "We thought that might be one thing that isn’t up for grabs, but Gianni seems to think otherwise, so we’ve lent him a sign to tell suitors football is officially for sale."

The proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise, the new company Infantino intends to establish to manage the tournaments, now faces substantial opposition. Reports indicate that 135 FIFA members are publicly against the plan, exceeding the 106 votes required to block it. This widespread dissent suggests the proposal may be withdrawn.

Carlos Cordeiro, in his resignation announcement, distanced himself from Infantino's plan, describing it as a poor deal for football and urging his former colleagues to speak out against it. Infantino had reportedly offered member associations a £30 million incentive to approve the deal.

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has also joined calls for Infantino's resignation. Infantino, 56, is reportedly facing internal rebellion and pressure to step down.