Fury against FIFA: 'Infantino must go', 'The World Cup is not for sale', 'This is not baseball'

FIFA's proposal to establish a new commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), has ignited a significant conflict with UEFA, potentially jeopardizing the participation of major footballing nations in the 2030 World Cup. The plan, which requires approval from FIFA's Council and member federations, aims to consolidate the organization's commercial and event operations.

Under the FFE initiative, FIFA intends to allocate approximately $20 million per association for exceptional, immediate funding for special projects within the new FIFA Fast-Forward Program (FFFP). Additionally, each association would receive $20 million in Forward program funds for the 2027-2030 period, a substantial increase from the current $8 million budget.

UEFA has strongly criticized the move, stating that FIFA has "crossed a line" and viewing the FFE as a way to sell stakes in the World Cup, the organization's most lucrative asset. In response, European football's governing body has scheduled an emergency meeting this week to determine its next steps. Reports suggest that UEFA is considering measures, including a potential boycott of the World Cup, a tactic previously debated against the 2026 tournament.

Football fan organizations have also voiced strong opposition. The European fan association, Football Supporters Europe (FSE), declared on social media, "The World Cup is not for sale. Enough of this farce. FIFA member associations and all who care about the future of the sport must stand up to the man who wants to sell world football. Gianni Infantino must go."

Following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup, FSE had already called for accountability from FIFA and demanded structural governance reforms to return decision-making power to FIFA's Council and Congress, ensuring full consultation with clubs, leagues, players, and fans. They argue that FIFA has prioritized spectacle and commercialization over the fan experience, altering key elements of football's identity.