FIFA President Gianni Infantino has come forward to clarify a controversial proposal that would see the governing body sell stakes in the FIFA World Cup and other major tournaments.
Under the plan, FIFA would spin off a $20 billion subsidiary that would manage the World Cup, the Women’s World Cup and other competitions, offering up to a 20 percent equity stake to external investors.
The suggestion has drawn sharp criticism from the six continental confederations, which say they were not consulted and fear the move could undermine the sport’s integrity.
Infantino, however, framed the initiative as a voluntary opportunity for consultation rather than a compulsory sale, arguing that modernising the commercial side of football is a natural evolution.
He reiterated that the ultimate goal is to reinvest proceeds into the development of the game while assuring that supporters remain the cornerstone of football’s future.
A Controversial Shift in Football’s Governance
While some analysts view the proposal as a pragmatic response to growing financial demands, others warn that it could open the door to external influence over tournament scheduling and broadcasting rights.
Infantino has pledged to keep the consultation process open, inviting feedback from stakeholders before any final decision is taken.
If approved, the new subsidiary could reshape how the sport’s most lucrative events are financed and administered, potentially setting a precedent for other global sporting bodies.