FIFA is moving forward with a controversial plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors, a move that has drawn sharp criticism and comparisons to the European Super League debacle. The proposals involve establishing a subsidiary to manage tournament operations and commercial interests, including ticketing and media rights. Investment bank J.P. Morgan is advising FIFA on the project, which aims to raise over £3 billion from investors. American venture capitalist firm Thrive, led by Joshua Kushner, brother-in-law to former President Donald Trump, is expected to head the investor group.
Despite FIFA's assurances that external investors will not hold operational roles, significant concerns remain about potential increases in tournament frequency to maximize returns. Football associations are being offered incentives of up to £15 million in additional revenue to support the plan. FIFA President Gianni Infantino's strategy to consolidate support relies on a "one association, one vote" system, which gives smaller nations the same voting power as larger ones. Infantino has reportedly leveraged promises of increased funding and expanded tournaments, such as a 64-team World Cup, to secure backing, particularly from African federations.
UEFA, the European football governing body, has expressed organizational concerns and a lack of consultation regarding the proposals. However, individual national associations ultimately decide their stance. UEFA is reportedly holding crisis talks to unify its 55 member nations against the plans, but consensus appears unlikely, with some national federations already voicing support for Infantino's initiatives. The African, South American, and Asian confederations have previously indicated their support for Infantino's re-election, representing a significant bloc of votes.
Challenges to Infantino's Leadership
The "untouchable" status of Infantino is attributed to his control over FIFA's finances and his ability to sway votes through developmental promises. His master plan to expand the World Cup to 64 teams would significantly increase revenue, appealing to nations that have historically benefited from FIFA's financial contributions. For example, nations like Curacao and Cape Verde received substantial sums from the recent expanded World Cup, highlighting the financial appeal of larger tournaments.
Efforts to block Infantino's plans face significant hurdles. While UEFA can facilitate discussions, it lacks the direct voting power to unilaterally stop the proposal. Threatening a boycott of future World Cups has been discussed as a potential leverage point, but this would require unprecedented unity among UEFA nations and could face resistance due to the timing of future tournaments and broadcast tender processes. The Women's World Cup, scheduled for next year, presents a more immediate opportunity for such pressure.
Tensions Between FIFA and UEFA
The relationship between FIFA and UEFA has become increasingly strained, marked by public disagreements. UEFA has stated that FIFA has "crossed a line" with these investment plans. Tensions escalated with FIFA's expansion of the Club World Cup, which UEFA views as a threat to the Champions League and the broader European club football market. Infantino's past actions, including a tardy appearance at a FIFA Congress and his close relationship with former U.S. President Donald Trump, have also contributed to friction with UEFA leadership.
Potential Challengers for FIFA Presidency
While Infantino appears entrenched, potential challengers could emerge before the next elections. The deadline for nominations, requiring support from at least five national federations, is November 18. PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi is considered a logical potential rival, given his backing from several European nations and his respected standing in football governance. He currently chairs the European Football Clubs group, which has criticized FIFA's investment plans. Dariusz Mioduski, president of Legia Warsaw, and Victor Montagliani, president of Concacaf, have also been mentioned as potential candidates, though Montagliani is expected to seek re-election with Concacaf. Figures like Bernd Neuendorf, president of the German Football Association, and La Liga chair Javier Tebas have expressed reservations about Infantino's leadership.