FIFA president Gianni Infantino is reportedly planning to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from UEFA.
Details of the Plan
According to The Times, the scheme would involve forming a company to control FIFA's men's and women's competitions, including the World Cup and Club World Cup. Each of the 211 member associations would receive a stake, which they could retain or sell for income. FIFA would own the majority, with private investors buying 20 to 30 per cent and member organisations receiving a small stake totalling 20 per cent.
The administration of US President Donald Trump has reportedly been consulted about the plan. One senior figure within football described it as a "nuclear bomb" for the game.
UEFA Condemns the Proposal
UEFA released a statement condemning the report. They said: “This crosses a line that football’s governing institutions should never cross. UEFA takes it extremely seriously. So should every National Football Association. So should every stakeholder: leagues, clubs, players, supporters, governments and everyone who cares about the future of the game. The soul and governance of football are not assets to trade - especially with zero transparency as to who gains financially. None of us are the owners of football. It is not FIFA’s to sell.”
Concerns and Implications
The venture has raised concerns that private investors could put pressure on the men's World Cup being staged in countries where commercial success can be maximised. Infantino, 56, is set to be re-elected as FIFA president until 2031 with no competitor for his position.
The move to a new model could see Infantino become commissioner, with some suggesting it could be on par with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell's $64 million (£48m) a year, reportedly 10 times as much as the FIFA chief's earnings.
