FIFA defends stake‑selling plan amid global backlash

Sun Sep 06 2026 02:35:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

FIFA insists it isn’t selling football as it pursues a controversial plan to bring private investors into World Cups, sparking boycotts from UEFA and Concacaf.

FIFA’s latest proposal to allow private investors to hold stakes in its flagship tournaments has been met with fierce opposition from major confederations. Despite claims that the programme is not about selling the game, the plan requires 106 of 211 member associations to back the move. UEFA and Concacaf have threatened boycotts, accusing FIFA of undermining the sport’s heritage. The outcome will hinge on member votes by 19 September, with potential implications for upcoming women’s competitions and smaller football nations.

FIFA defends stake‑selling plan amid global backlash

FIFA has reiterated that it is not “selling football” as it pushes forward a controversial scheme to invite private investors into its world‑class competitions, most notably the World Cup.

UAEFA and Concacaf, the two main continental football bodies, have opened a line of sound‑boring frustration. They have vowed to boycott the World Cup if FIFA’s proposal receives approval, arguing that the tournament is a sporting legacy that cannot be monetised or handed over to private hands.

The plan, dubbed Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE), would create a commercial subsidiary that could issue minority, non‑controlling shares to outside investors. According to a 25‑page document prepared by J.P. Morgan, the move would aim to increase payout to member associations, with an upside of 24 million euros per federation during the 2035‑2039 cycle.

FIFA says that the scheme is merely a way to give member associations a share in the commercial upside of football in their own countries. It insists that the spirit, governance and integrity of the sport would remain intact.

Member associations must give approval for the proposal: 106 out of 211 votes are required. Between UEFA and Concacaf lie 90 of the necessary votes, though six Concacaf members are not FCC affiliates – a fact that has spurred further debate.

When the proposal was leaked, FIFA accused the media of “disrupting the consultation process” and promised to continue a “fair, open and democratic consultation” to allow each association to vote based on facts.

Infantino has promised $40 million to federations that pledge backing before 19 September, with an immediate $20 million if they sign earlier. The deadline comes just before the 2026‑27 season opens on 1 January, raising concerns that member nations could withdraw from competitions in the middle of knock‑out stages.

While the men’s campaign dates are high‑profile, the impact spills over to women’s football: the U‑20 Women’s World Cup will occur in Poland from 5 Sep, with potential boycotts threatening to disrupt the tournament in mid‑month. Subsequent women’s World Cup play‑offs in October could also be affected.

Smaller football associations, particularly in Africa, rely heavily on FIFA funding for infrastructure and grassroots programmes. Statements from figures such as Mark Palios and Ugandan federation president Rogers Byamukama highlight the need for sustained investment, arguing that any avenue for more resources should be explored – albeit in ways that do not compromise the sport’s public nature.

With the current term of Infantino set to end in 2027 and the proposal’s deadline looming, the future of football’s biggest stages hangs in the balance. UEFA’s boycott threat and Concacaf’s public rejection could trigger a split in the football world, while FIFA’s appeal to a broad coalition of associations aims to keep its next decade of tournaments under its control.