FIFA Advisor Resigns in Protest Over World Cup Commercial Rights Sale Plan

A high-ranking advisor to FIFA President Gianni Infantino has resigned, citing his strong opposition to the organization's plan to sell a share of the World Cup's commercial rights. Carlos Cordeiro, who served as a senior advisor, stated that after decades in the financial world, he understands the value of such assets and the implications of partial divestment.

"Football has been a central part of my life, and after more than 35 years in the banking world, I understand both the value of this asset and the consequences of giving away a part of it. Therefore, this proposal should be rejected," Cordeiro said in a statement. His departure signals significant internal dissent regarding the proposed commercial strategy.

FIFA recently unveiled a plan to establish a commercial entity and sell portions of its commercial rights, aiming to increase revenue for its tournaments. The global football governing body intends to raise approximately $27.6 billion (30 billion Danish kroner) to reinvest in football development worldwide.

However, the proposal requires approval from a majority of FIFA's member countries. Crucially, major continental confederations, UEFA (Europe), CONCACAF (North, Central America, and Caribbean), and AFC (Asia), have all expressed preliminary opposition to the plan, indicating a significant hurdle to its implementation.

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Football has been a central part of my life, and after more than 35 years in the banking world, I understand both the value of this asset and the consequences of giving away a part of it. Therefore, this proposal should be rejected.