In a dramatic turn of events, FIFA has abandoned its controversial plan to sell minority stakes in the World Cup to private investors. The decision came just days after the proposal sparked intense backlash from European nations, other soccer governing bodies, and even internal FIFA officials. The swift reversal marks a significant setback for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who had championed the plan as a means to capitalize on the commercial potential of the world’s most prestigious soccer tournament.
The proposal, announced on Tuesday, aimed to create a commercial venture to monetize FIFA’s tournaments, including the World Cup and the Club World Cup. The most contentious aspect was the involvement of private investors, notably a firm run by Joshua Kushner, brother of Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The plan drew immediate opposition from UEFA, the governing body for European soccer, which labeled it a “sale” of football and threatened a boycott of the World Cup.
Global Opposition Forces FIFA’s Hand
The backlash against Infantino’s plan was swift and severe. UEFA, representing 55 member associations, was the most vocal opponent, stating that the “soul and governance of football are not assets to trade.” The European body even hinted at a potential boycott of the World Cup if FIFA proceeded with the plan. Other confederations, including CONCACAF and the AFC, also expressed their disapproval, although they stopped short of threatening a boycott.
The opposition was not limited to external bodies. Internal dissent within FIFA further complicated matters. Carlos Cordeiro, a top adviser to Infantino, resigned in protest, while Kevin Lamour, FIFA’s chief operating officer, publicly criticized the plan. Lamour described it as the “project of one person” and expressed his willingness to face the consequences for his stance, famously stating, “At least I’ll sleep well tonight.”
The Kushner Connection and Financial Implications
The proposed deal included a significant financial component, with FIFA aiming to raise up to $4.2 billion through the sale of a minority stake. The investors were expected to include Thrive Eternal, a company launched by Joshua Kushner. The involvement of Kushner, despite his lack of political ties to the Trump Administration, added a layer of controversy to the plan. Critics argued that the move would further commercialize the sport and deepen FIFA’s ties with U.S. political figures.
Infantino had defended the plan, arguing that it would allow FIFA to raise substantial funds for soccer development programs worldwide. The proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) would have consolidated FIFA’s commercial rights and operational delivery of its tournaments. However, the backlash highlighted the delicate balance between commercialization and the preservation of the sport’s integrity.
Infantino’s Future and the Path Forward
The abandonment of the privatization plan is a significant blow to Infantino, who had overseen the most lucrative World Cup in history. The 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, generated a record $15 billion in revenue for FIFA. Despite this success, Infantino has faced a series of controversies, including backlash over ticket prices and the controversial decision to award a “Peace Prize” to former President Trump.
In his statement announcing the reversal, Infantino acknowledged the divisions caused by the proposal. “Our purpose has always been – and will always be – to unite and improve,” he said. “As a result, this proposal will not proceed.” Infantino also expressed his intent to mend fences and bring all interested parties back together to continue growing football, particularly in countries that need support the most.
The future of FIFA under Infantino’s leadership remains uncertain. With his current term set to expire next year, speculation about his potential run for a third term has intensified. The abandonment of the privatization plan may have alleviated immediate tensions, but the broader challenges facing FIFA and its leadership are far from resolved.
