Key Infantino Advisor Resigns Over World Cup Stake Sale Plan

A significant internal challenge has emerged against FIFA President Gianni Infantino's controversial plan to sell stakes in the organization's commercial operations, with the resignation of a key advisor. Carlos Cordeiro, who served as a senior advisor to Infantino on strategic projects, has stepped down, citing his strong opposition to the proposal.

Cordeiro, who previously led the U.S. Soccer Federation and worked in investment banking at Goldman Sachs, stated, "I cannot stand by and watch FIFA consider selling a stake in the World Cup. I was not involved in the preparation of this proposal and I unequivocally oppose it." He described the plan as a "bad deal" for FIFA members, the sport itself, and its long-term future.

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I cannot stand by and watch FIFA consider selling a stake in the World Cup. I was not involved in the preparation of this proposal and I unequivocally oppose it.

The proposal involves establishing a new subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), valued at approximately $20 billion, to sell up to a 20% stake to private investors, aiming to raise around $4.2 billion in capital. Cordeiro questioned the rationale behind selling a permanent stake in FIFA's "most valuable asset" when the organization has no debt and substantial reserves. He pointed to Infantino's own projections of $15 billion in revenue between 2022 and 2026, suggesting sufficient funds already exist to increase financial support for national federations.

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The project is a bad deal for FIFA members, for football, and for the long-term future of the game.

Cordeiro's departure is particularly impactful as Infantino personally selected him in 2021 for his expertise in modernizing rules and expanding the game globally. His resignation adds considerable pressure on Infantino, especially after three continental confederations – UEFA, CONCACAF, and the Asian Football Confederation – have already voiced opposition. FIFA members are reportedly under pressure to decide on the plan by September 19, with indications that rejection could impact their development funding.

"In such circumstances, selling a permanent stake in football's most valuable asset for $4.2 billion does not make much sense," Cordeiro stated, emphasizing the financial and strategic flaws he perceives in the plan. His strong dissent from within Infantino's inner circle signals a growing internal conflict over the future commercial strategy of global football's governing body.

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In such circumstances, selling a permanent stake in football's most valuable asset for $4.2 billion does not make much sense.