UEFA has accused FIFA of attempting to bribe national associations to support its controversial plan to sell stakes in the World Cup, criticizing the global football governing body's "self-interest." The dispute centers on FIFA's proposal to allow private investors to acquire a £3 billion stake in the World Cup, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino outlining the financial benefits of the project in a letter to national associations.
FIFA's proposal includes a £30 million funding package for associations that sign off on the private investment plan. Associations have been given a deadline of September 19 to decide on the proposal. In response, UEFA stated, "Today we have learned of FIFA’s deadline to associations to support their proposals or have the one-off payout offer withdrawn. This says everything you need to know about this plan."
UEFA asserted that there is significant and growing opposition to FIFA's scheme among various stakeholders in the sport. The European football body stated, "FIFA cannot continue to use our sport to enrich themselves and their friends. We can grow the game correctly. It’s time to prioritise associations, clubs, leagues, players and fans."
Sources indicate that UEFA has scheduled crisis talks with its 55 member nations to rally opposition against FIFA's plan. Tensions have been escalating between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin.
FIFA intends to establish a new company, tentatively named FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), to manage the commercial activities and operational delivery of its tournaments. Investment bank J.P. Morgan is advising FIFA on the project, with Joshua Kushner's Thrive Capital expected to lead the proposed investor group. Thrive Capital is led by Joshua Kushner, the brother of Jared Kushner, former advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump.
The venture aims to raise over £3 billion from a diverse group of global investors, potentially including sovereign wealth funds. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential implications of these proposals for the sport, including the possibility of FIFA increasing the frequency of tournaments to ensure investors receive a return on their investment.