FIFA's World Cup stake sale draws UEFA backlash
FIFA has unveiled a plan to sell minority stakes in the World Cup and other marquee tournaments to private investors through a new vehicle called FIFA Forward Enterprises. The initiative is projected to generate as much as $4.2 billion, a figure that would triple the amount of money flowing to the federation’s 211 member associations.
The move marks a dramatic shift in how the sport’s governing body intends to finance its flagship events, seeking capital from external investors while promising to keep overall control of the competition.
UEFA's reaction
European football’s governing body, UEFA, has responded with sharp criticism, describing the proposal as a line that football’s institutions should never cross. Officials said they are evaluating the possibility of a boycott should FIFA move forward with the scheme.
According to people familiar with the discussions, FIFA has held early talks with Josh Kushner, whose investment firm Thrive Capital is being positioned as a cornerstone backer. J.P. Morgan is also serving as a strategic partner on the project.
Kushner’s personal connection to the U.S. political sphere came to light when it was noted that he is the brother of Jared Kushner, the former White House senior adviser who is married to Ivanka Trump. Donald Trump later acknowledged his role in a controversial episode involving the red‑card reversal of Folarin Balogun during a World Cup match.
FIFA insists that, despite the new financing structure, it will retain exclusive authority over football governance, competition scheduling, calendar decisions and all regulatory and sporting matters.
UEFA has also voiced concerns about the lack of transparency surrounding who would ultimately benefit financially from the deal, urging for clearer disclosures before any agreement is sealed.