FIFA has abandoned its controversial plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors. This decision came after strong opposition from European countries and dissent within FIFA itself. The plan, supported by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, aimed to create a commercial venture to capitalize on its tournaments, including both the World Cup and the Club World Cup. The reversal marks a significant setback for Infantino, who had announced the initiative just days earlier.
The plan faced immediate backlash, particularly from Europe. UEFA, the region’s soccer governing body, labeled the proposal as akin to the ‘sale’ of football. European countries even threatened to boycott the World Cup if the plan proceeded. While organizations like CONCACAF and the AFC also opposed the proposal, they stopped short of suggesting a boycott.
A contentious element of the plan included selling a minority stake to private investors, one of which was linked to Joshua Kushner, the brother of Jared Kushner. Infantino acknowledged the divisions the proposal caused, stating that it no longer served the original objectives. He reaffirmed FIFA’s purpose to unite and improve the sport, concluding that the proposal would not move forward.
Internal opposition further compounded the issue. Carlos Cordeiro, a top adviser, resigned over his disagreement with the plan. Additionally, FIFA’s chief operating officer, Kevin Lamour, openly criticized the proposal, describing it as the ‘project of one person’ and indicating his willingness to face repercussions for his stance.
Infantino recently oversaw the most profitable World Cup to date, bringing in $15 billion over four years, mainly from the men’s tournament in North America. Despite this financial success, his tenure has not been without controversy. Issues such as inflated ticket prices and the awarding of a ‘Peace Prize’ to President Trump, not to mention the suspended red card for U.S. player Folarin Balogun following U.S. intervention, have stirred debate.
As Infantino considers seeking a third term next year, he faces mounting pressure from both outside and inside FIFA. With the fallout from the failed plan, Infantino expressed his intent to reconcile and bring interested parties together to continue growing the sport, especially in countries requiring further support.