FIFA is reportedly considering a controversial proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup, a move that has sparked widespread criticism and raised questions about the future governance of football’s flagship tournament. The plan, leaked this week, involves the creation of a company—tentatively called FIFA Forward Enterprise—that would manage the men’s and women’s World Cups as well as the Club World Cup. FIFA would retain a majority stake, while private investors could acquire minority shares.
The proposal is said to be valued at around £15 billion, with each of FIFA’s 211 member associations offered shares worth approximately £15 million. These associations would have the option to sell their stakes, potentially generating significant revenue. Reports indicate that the US banking giant JPMorgan is involved in facilitating the deal, and that the administration of former US President Donald Trump was consulted during its development.
Gianni Infantino, FIFA’s president, is at the center of the plan’s rollout. He is expected to transition from his current role after 2031 to become the commissioner of the new entity, a post that could earn him an estimated £37.5 million annually—about ten times his current salary. Infantino has defended his leadership amid the controversy, emphasizing the organization’s work in delivering a safe and joyful World Cup experience.
However, the proposals have drawn strong condemnation from many quarters. UEFA, the governing body for European football and a frequent challenger of FIFA under Infantino’s tenure, described the move as crossing a line football’s institutions should never breach. UEFA criticized the lack of transparency regarding the financial beneficiaries of such a deal, stating that football is not an asset to be traded.
European football federations are reportedly considering a boycott of future World Cups should the plans proceed, with an emergency meeting scheduled to discuss strategies. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham joined the criticism, asserting that football belongs to its fans and participants, not investors, and warning that selling any part of the World Cup is tantamount to selling out the sport.
Concerns have also been raised about potential changes to the tournament’s traditional format. The plan could lead to more frequent World Cups, departing from the established four-year cycle, as well as expansion of the competition. Critics warn such alterations might dilute the event’s prestige, prioritizing profit over sporting integrity.
The controversy has revived broader debates about commercial influences in sport and the growing disparity between football executives’ earnings and those of players. Some analysts see this development as an unprecedented step toward the full commodification of football’s marquee event.
As FIFA moves forward with consultations and planning, the football community remains sharply divided on the future of the World Cup and the role of private capital in its governance. The coming weeks are expected to be critical in determining whether the proposal advances and how the global football landscape may be reshaped.