Erick Thohir Backs FIFA's World Cup Commercialization Plan, Citing Funding as Key to Football Transformation
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir supports FIFA President Gianni Infantino's plan to commercialize the World Cup.
- Thohir believes funding is key to transforming football, especially in Indonesia.
- The plan involves selling shares of World Cup commercial rights through a new entity, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE).
Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) Chairman Erick Thohir has voiced his strong support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino's initiative to commercialize the World Cup. Thohir sees this move as crucial for generating essential funding that can drive the transformation of football, particularly within Indonesia.
The core of FIFA's plan, which Thohir backs, is the establishment of the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE). This new entity is intended to sell shares of the commercial rights associated with the World Cup. Thohir emphasized that securing adequate funding is paramount for implementing significant changes and advancements in the sport.
Speaking from Jakarta, Thohir stated his backing for the plan, highlighting its potential to inject vital capital into football development. He believes that this commercialization strategy is a key step towards modernizing the sport and ensuring its long-term growth and sustainability, aligning with FIFA's broader vision for global football.
Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.