FIFA President Gianni Infantino has unveiled a bold scheme to spin off a $20 billion entity that would oversee the sport’s most prestigious tournaments, including the World Cup and the Club World Cup. The venture would allocate a 20 percent stake to private investors, and each of FIFA’s 211 member associations would be asked to commit $20 million by a set deadline. The financial backing would come from Thrive Capital, the growth‑stage firm co‑founded by Joshua Kushner, itself a brother of former White House adviser Jared Kushner.
Global Backlash
Opposition has emerged from across the football world. UEFA, CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation have issued formal statements condemning the initiative, while British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has warned that football must remain in the hands of supporters rather than investors.
Infantino’s vision also calls for a tighter schedule of World Cup editions and a revamped Club World Cup, moves that would amplify revenue streams but raise concerns about competitive balance and fixture congestion. If the proposal gains approval, a coalition of international investors is expected to join Thrive Capital, a development that would be coordinated by J.P. Morgan.
Even should the plan be rejected, FIFA has pledged to honor a previously promised $10 million payment to each federation over the next four years, ensuring a financial safety net for member associations.