FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing mounting criticism following reports that he is considering a proposal to sell minority stakes in the commercial rights of the FIFA World Cup and the newly expanded Club World Cup to private investors. The plan, which has already drawn strong opposition from UEFA, could fundamentally alter the governance and financial structure of world football's flagship tournaments.
Proposal Details and Financial Implications
According to reports, the proposal involves the creation of a new company that would manage the commercial rights for both tournaments. FIFA would retain majority ownership, while private investors could acquire up to 30 percent of the entity. The Times reports that potential investors have already been briefed, with Thrive Capital, led by Joshua Kushner, expected to head the investor group. JP Morgan is reportedly being lined up as FIFA's financial adviser.
Under the reported plan, each of FIFA's 211 member associations would receive a £15 million stake in the new company, which they could choose to retain or sell. Additionally, the proposal could see Infantino assume a commissioner-style role after his presidency ends, with the position potentially carrying an annual salary of approximately £48 million.
Revenue Generation and Tournament Expansion Concerns
The plan could increase commercial pressure on FIFA to generate more revenue, prompting concerns that it might lead to further expansion of the World Cup beyond 48 teams, more commercially driven host selections, and even more frequent tournaments. FIFA's current World Cup cycle between 2022 and 2026 is reportedly expected to generate around £11.3 billion in revenue.
In a statement, FIFA acknowledged it is reviewing the proposal and consulting its member associations. “FIFA is always on the lookout for innovative projects that can boost the development of football around the world and is always open to reviewing proposals submitted to it. We are starting a consultation process,” the statement read. “As the FIFA President stated on July 18 during a meeting with all FIFA member associations, the priority now is to 'unleash the commercial potential and opportunity that FIFA has,' after FIFA World Cup 2026 success.” FIFA emphasized that decisions are made democratically, and the proposal will be presented to the 211 Member Associations and the FIFA Council for final decision.
UEFA's Strong Opposition
UEFA has strongly criticized the reported plans, warning that football's governance should not become a commercial asset. “This crosses a line that football's governing institutions should never cross. UEFA takes it extremely seriously,” the organization said. “So should every National Football Association. So should every stakeholder: leagues, clubs, players, supporters, governments and everyone who cares about the future of the game.” UEFA further stated, “The soul and governance of football are not assets to trade – especially with zero transparency as to who gains financially. None of us are the owners of football. It is not FIFA's to sell.”
The reported proposal adds to ongoing tensions between FIFA and UEFA over the future governance and commercial direction of international football. As consultation begins, the outcome remains uncertain, with many stakeholders closely watching how this contentious plan unfolds.
