Explainer: FIFA's controversial plan to sell stakes in a new subsidiary

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has put forward a controversial proposal to create a new subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), valued at approximately $20 billion. This entity would consolidate FIFA's revenue-generating activities, including broadcast rights, sponsorship, and ticketing, into a single commercial company. FIFA plans to sell a minority stake of up to 20% to external investors, while retaining majority control, with bankers at JPMorgan assisting in raising billions.

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crosses a line that football's governing institutions should never cross

The primary financial benefit touted for FIFA's 211 member associations is a significant increase in funding. Under the proposal, each association could receive up to $40 million for the 2027-30 cycle, comprising a $20 million one-off "Fast-Forward" payment and $20 million in development funding. This amount is slated to increase in subsequent cycles. Infantino claims the decision will be democratic, requiring approval from a majority of member associations and the FIFA Council.

However, the proposal has drawn sharp criticism. UEFA stated that the plan "crosses a line that football's governing institutions should never cross," arguing that "the soul and governance of football are not assets to trade." Reports indicate that some governing bodies were not consulted prior to the announcement. Infantino has presented an ultimatum: if the plan is rejected, member associations will receive substantially smaller increases in funding from the existing Forward Programme, totaling around $10 million per association for the next cycle, as part of a $2.7 billion package instead of the proposed $10 billion.

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the soul and governance of football are not assets to trade

Infantino insists that FIFA's governance model and the rights of member associations will remain unchanged, with FIFA retaining perpetual majority ownership of FFE and exclusive control over competition matters. The "Fast-Forward" funding is contingent on member associations making a decision by September 19, 2026.

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Should you wish to proceed, this USD 10bn package will become available as of 1 January 2027, ushering in the next phase of our journey together. In exchange, all that is required is your continued trust, everything else remains the same.