FIFA's Privatization Plan Falters as Support Erodes
FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s proposal to hand over control of the World Cup to a private venture known as the FIFA Forward Enterprise has collapsed amid mounting opposition from the sport’s continental governing bodies.
The scheme, championed by Thrive Eternal and its chief executive Joshua Kushner, the brother of Jared Kushner who is also a son‑in‑law of Donald Trump, was abandoned after UEFA, Concacaf and the AFC voiced strong resistance.
Wales and England have now withdrawn their earlier backing, cutting the number of member associations that still endorse Infantino to well below the 200‑plus needed for a comfortable re‑election in the March 2026 vote.
Concacaf president Victor Montagliano has indicated he may run against Infantino, even though the Swiss official is currently the sole declared candidate.
U.S. Soccer Looks to Long‑Term Vision
U.S. Soccer chief executive J.T. Batson told reporters that the federation’s September board meeting will focus on a roadmap for sustainable growth, including the 2026 and 2027 World Cups, the Women’s World Cup, and broader development of the game in the United States.
The strategy emphasizes youth development, coaching pathways and stronger ties between professional clubs, local governments, schools and community organisations.
Mauricio Pochettino’s recent contract extension to lead the US men’s national team through 2030 underscores the federation’s commitment to a stable, forward‑looking coaching structure.
Emma Hayes, who oversees the women’s national team, and Arsene Wenger, FIFA’s global football development chief, are working together to reshape youth soccer pathways and to integrate school‑based programmes with elite academies.
Batson highlighted the need for collaboration among professional clubs, municipal authorities, youth organisations and colleges to realise the federation’s long‑term ambitions.