UEFA has strongly criticized FIFA's reported proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors, a move that could potentially yield millions of dollars for FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The plan, which could be worth approximately £15 billion, has been described by some as a "nuclear bomb" for the sport and potentially worse than the European Super League.
According to reports, FIFA President Infantino is considering establishing a new company to hold parts of the World Cup, with the possibility of him becoming commissioner of this entity after his FIFA tenure ends in 2031. Estimates suggest this role could pay him over $50 million annually. The banking firm JPMorgan is reportedly managing the process, and the administration of former President Donald Trump has been consulted.
UEFA issued a stern statement condemning the proposal, stating, "This crosses a line that football’s governing institutions should never cross." The organization emphasized that the "soul and governance of football are not assets to trade," particularly without transparency regarding financial beneficiaries, and asserted that "It is not FIFA’s to sell."
The potential restructuring could impact the global football calendar, possibly leading to expanded or more frequent World Cup tournaments for both men and women, and similar changes to the Club World Cup. Under the proposal, FIFA's 211 member associations would each receive a stake valued at around $20 million, with the option to sell it. FIFA would maintain a majority share in the new entity, while private investors would hold minority stakes.
FIFA, a non-profit organization with tax-free status at its Swiss headquarters, projects revenues of around $15 billion for the 2022-2026 cycle, largely driven by the recent World Cup. The proposed venture offers a significant financial opportunity for private investors, with some reportedly expressing interest in "buying FIFA." Discussions about the potential sale of stakes have involved senior FIFA figures and potential investors, including Joshua Kushner, brother of Jared Kushner, who have reportedly signed non-disclosure agreements.
These reports emerge amid ongoing scrutiny of Infantino's leadership, including issues such as U.S. visa restrictions for international participants and high ticket prices. FIFA, when contacted, confirmed plans to launch a "controlled subsidiary" named FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) to consolidate commercial and event operations. FIFA stated that it would retain sole control over FFE and exclusive authority over all football governance, competitions, and sporting decisions, adding that the move aims to increase funding for its member associations.