Fifa Official Slams Infantino's Investor Plans as 'One Person's Project'

Fifa Operations Director Kevin Lamour has leveled serious accusations against President Gianni Infantino, alleging he has sidelined employees with his plans to open the world football governing body to private investors. Lamour's criticism, detailed in a letter cited by the Associated Press, asserts that the project is the work of a single individual and that employees deserve better than to be disregarded and intimidated.

"It is one person's project," Lamour wrote, indirectly calling for consequences. "Not only must this project not go forward. Now is the time for the political decision-makers in football to ask the right questions and make the right decisions." Despite his strong stance, Lamour, who has held his position since November 1, 2024, stated he would not resign, citing his obligation to his colleagues. He acknowledged that this could lead to his dismissal but expressed he would understand and respect such a decision, stating he would sleep soundly at night.

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It is one person's project. Not only must this project not go forward. Now is the time for the political decision-makers in football to ask the right questions and make the right decisions.

This internal dissent follows the resignation of Carlos Cordeiro, a high-ranking advisor to Infantino, who protested the plans and voiced significant criticism. Cordeiro also emphasized that he was not involved in developing the proposals. Infantino's plan involves allowing private investors to acquire approximately one-fifth of the shares in a newly established subsidiary, Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE), which is to be valued initially at $20 billion. This entity would consolidate the commercial rights of Fifa's competitions, including the men's and women's World Cups and the Club World Cup. Fifa would retain majority ownership and control over the game calendar and all regulatory matters.

The proposal faces significant opposition. The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has threatened a boycott of Fifa competitions by its 55 member associations. Additionally, the confederations for North, Central America, and the Caribbean (Concacaf) and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have distanced themselves from Infantino's initiative, casting doubt on whether the necessary majority of Fifa's 211 member associations will approve the plan.

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If that means I lose my job, then so be it. I will understand and respect that decision. At least I will sleep soundly at night.