Gianni Infantino says the plan to bring private investors into a new commercial subsidiary is an opportunity to boost global football development.
Key facts
- •FIFA aims to raise $4.2 billion by selling minority interests in a new commercial subsidiary.
- •The subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise, has an initial valuation of $20 billion.
- •The plan requires support from a majority of FIFA's 211 member associations.
- •UEFA has publicly opposed the plan, stating that football's governance is not for sale.
- •Infantino stated that FIFA would retain control over football regulations and competitions.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended a proposal on Wednesday to create a new commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise, which would manage the organization's business operations and competitions. The plan, which has faced criticism since its reveal on Tuesday, aims to raise capital by selling minority interests in the entity.
By the numbers
Details of the proposal
FIFA Forward Enterprise would consolidate the organization's commercial rights, including broadcasting, sponsorship, ticketing, and licensing. FIFA intends to raise up to $4.2 billion by selling non-controlling interests in the subsidiary, which holds an initial valuation of $20 billion. Infantino stated that FIFA would retain exclusive authority over football regulations and the international match calendar.
Criticism and approval process
The proposal has drawn opposition over concerns regarding transparency, governance, and the potential commercial influence over the World Cup. UEFA criticized the plan, stating that football's governance is not an asset to be traded. To proceed, the proposal requires approval from the FIFA Council and a majority of FIFA's 211 member associations.
Stated benefits
Infantino described the plan as a way to unlock uncaptured commercial value to fund stadiums, national training centers, grassroots programs, and women's football. He maintained that the initiative is an offer rather than an obligation and would ultimately increase development funding for all 211 member associations.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Anadolu Agency Sport.
