FIFA President Gianni Infantino's leadership is facing an unprecedented challenge following widespread objections to his proposal to sell off a stake in the World Cup to private equity. The controversy has escalated to the point where Infantino's own position as FIFA president is now in question.
CONCACAF, representing 41 football associations in North and Central America and the Caribbean, announced Thursday its members reject the proposal. The organization cited deep concerns regarding the "lack of due process," a "short deadline," and the absence of review by "relevant FIFA governance bodies." CONCACAF also questioned the necessity of private equity investment for FIFA Forward programs, particularly after a profitable World Cup.
U.S. Soccer, a CONCACAF member, stated its support for the organization's stance without offering further comment.
This revolt follows similar opposition from the 55 members of UEFA, Europe's football governing body, who had threatened to boycott the World Cup if the plan proceeded. Infantino's proposal, revealed earlier this week, involves spinning out a new entity, FIFA Forward Enterprise, from FIFA and selling it to private equity. In a letter to associations, Infantino indicated a decision was required by September 19, offering a $10 billion package if approved, versus $2.7 billion if rejected.
The plan has drawn significant backlash, particularly from European nations, who view it as an introduction of capitalism and potential corruption into the sport, potentially harming fans and players while benefiting shareholders.
While a majority of FIFA's 211 member nations have yet to officially voice their opposition, the combined objections from UEFA and CONCACAF, representing 90 associations, coupled with the boycott threat, appear to be derailing the proposal. A World Cup without European participation is considered commercially and sportingly untenable.
The turmoil has also ignited speculation about potential challengers to Infantino, who was expected to run unopposed for reelection in 2031. While names like Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi have been mentioned, a spokesperson for Al-Khelaifi has stated he has no interest in the FIFA role.