FIFA is facing mounting criticism after unveiling plans to sell a minority stake in the commercial operations of the FIFA World Cup and other major tournaments through a newly created private subsidiary.
The proposal, announced on Tuesday, would see world football’s governing body retain a majority ownership in the newly formed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) while seeking to raise $4.2 billion by attracting carefully selected long-term investors.
According to FIFA, the investment is intended to strengthen the organization’s commercial growth and generate additional revenue for football development worldwide.
The controversy intensified after several media outlets reported that FIFA President Gianni Infantino sent a letter to member associations offering each $40 million if they approve the investment plan.
Reports indicate that associations must agree to the proposal by September 19 to qualify for the payment, a move that has prompted criticism from football stakeholders who argue the offer could influence voting on a major governance decision.
Neither FIFA nor Infantino has publicly confirmed the reported details beyond the organization’s announcement of the investment initiative.
The proposal has drawn strong reactions from football officials and governance experts, with critics questioning whether selling stakes in the commercial arm of the World Cup could reduce transparency and increase the influence of private investors over one of the world’s most valuable sporting events.
Supporters, however, argue that outside investment could help FIFA expand its commercial operations while maintaining overall control through its majority ownership of FIFA Forward Enterprise.
FIFA Retains Majority Control
FIFA has emphasized that it will continue to hold a controlling interest in FIFA Forward Enterprise, ensuring that strategic decisions remain under the organization’s authority despite the introduction of minority investors.
The governing body says the initiative is designed to secure long-term financial sustainability and create new funding opportunities for football development programs across its member associations.
Member associations are expected to review the proposal before the reported September 19 deadline. If approved, FIFA would move forward with identifying investors willing to purchase non-controlling minority stakes in the commercial subsidiary.
The outcome of the vote could shape the future commercial structure of the FIFA World Cup and other international competitions for years to come.
