FIFA has denied it is selling football following backlash over a proposal to create a commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise, which would allow private investment in its competitions.
Key facts
- •FIFA claims the consultation process was disrupted by incorrect media reports.
- •UEFA's 55 member associations have pledged to boycott FIFA tournaments if the plan is not withdrawn.
- •CONCACAF, representing 41 nations, has formally rejected the proposal.
- •FIFA needs 106 votes out of 211 total member associations to pass the plan.
- •The proposed investor group is expected to be led by Thrive Eternal.
FIFA has insisted that "nobody is selling football" as it moves forward with a controversial plan to establish a commercial entity, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE). The governing body intends to continue a consultation process despite significant opposition from UEFA and CONCACAF. Both confederations have rejected the proposal, with UEFA members voting to boycott FIFA tournaments if the plan proceeds.
By the numbers
The Proposed Commercial Plan
FIFA aims to create a subsidiary to manage its major events, including the World Cup, and invite third parties to purchase minority, non-controlling stakes. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has supported the initiative, which would involve an investor group led by the venture capital firm Thrive Eternal, founded by Joshua Kushner. FIFA claims the plan is designed to provide member associations with meaningful ownership of commercial opportunities without compromising the governance or spirit of the sport.
Opposition and Voting Requirements
UEFA and CONCACAF have led the resistance against the proposal, with UEFA stating that the World Cup should not be treated as an investment product. FIFA requires 106 votes from its 211 member associations to approve the plan. Combined, UEFA and CONCACAF represent 96 votes. Infantino has reportedly offered member associations $40 million for their support, with a deadline of September 19 for federations to accept the proposal to access an initial $20 million.
Timeline
- TuesdayMedia reports regarding the FIFA Forward Enterprise plan emerged.
- ThursdayUEFA voted to boycott FIFA tournaments if the plan proceeds.
- FridayFIFA released a statement defending the consultation process.
- September 19Deadline for federations to accept the plan to access initial funds.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Sky Sports Football, BBC Sport.
