FIFA President Gianni Infantino has advocated for the organization’s strategy to potentially sell minority stakes in a newly established commercial subsidiary. This entity would be responsible for managing the FIFA World Cup along with other tournaments. Infantino characterized this initiative as an opportunity for member associations rather than an obligation.
The plan involves offering up to a 20% stake to external investors, a proposal that has met with significant opposition from various continental football bodies, including UEFA, Concacaf, and the Asian Football Confederation. These organizations have raised concerns about the transparency and governance aspects of the proposal. In response, UEFA is convening an emergency meeting to formulate its strategy, amid circulating reports that suggest some European associations are contemplating more drastic actions should the proposal move forward without modifications.
FIFA has communicated a deadline of September 19 for its 211 member associations to express their stance on the proposal. Infantino has assured that, irrespective of any external investment, FIFA will maintain complete control over its competitions and governance structures.