On July 28, 2026, FIFA announced the creation of a $20 billion subsidiary named FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) to manage commercial and event operations for the World Cup and other major tournaments, with plans to sell up to 20% minority stakes to private investors aiming to raise about $4.2 billion [1, 2, 3, 4]. FIFA stated it would retain majority control over FFE, including governance, regulatory, and sporting decisions [3, 4].
The plan faced immediate backlash. UEFA held an emergency virtual meeting where its 55 member associations unanimously voted to boycott all FIFA tournaments, including the World Cup, if the plan proceeded [1, 2, 5, 6]. AFC, CONCACAF, and CAF also voiced strong concerns, citing a lack of consultation, transparency, and the potential to undermine football governance and future funding sources [7, 8, 6].
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham publicly condemned FIFA President Gianni Infantino as unfit to lead and called the proposal "absurd" and a betrayal of football. Burnham stated, "Football belongs to those who walk onto the pitch every week and those who stand on the sidelines. The World Cup is not a commodity to be sold." [4, 7, 9]. Several senior FIFA advisors, including Carlos Cordeiro, resigned in protest. Cordeiro said, "Let me be clear, I was not part of this proposal and I oppose it completely. This is a bad deal for FIFA member associations, the game itself, and its long-term future." [7, 9, 10]
On or around August 1, 2026, FIFA President Infantino announced the withdrawal of the equity sale plan after listening to widespread opposition. He said, "After carefully considering all opinions, I realize this project caused serious division. Our goal has always been — and will always be — to unite all parties and seek progress. Therefore, this proposal will no longer proceed." [11, 10, 12]
FIFA plans to engage all stakeholders in transparent consultations to support football development without selling stakes in competitions [11, 10, 12]. AFC President Salman welcomed the decision and called for future transparent dialogue [12].
