Fifa has dismissed claims that it is selling off the sport as it pushes forward with plans to bring private investment into its tournaments. The organization intends to continue its consultation process despite significant pushback from member associations.
European football’s governing body, Uefa, and its 55 member associations have threatened to boycott future World Cups if the proposal proceeds. Similarly, Concacaf, representing 41 associations across North and Central America, has officially rejected the initiative.
In response, Fifa stated that inaccurate media coverage hindered its initial outreach. The organization emphasized that it is not selling football, but rather aims to establish a commercial subsidiary, Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE). This entity would manage major events and allow third parties to acquire minority, non-controlling stakes.
Gianni Infantino requires 106 votes from Fifa’s 211 members to approve the plan. With Uefa and Concacaf’s combined 96 votes currently opposed, the proposal faces a difficult path. Fifa remains committed to an open, democratic dialogue to ensure members understand the plan, maintaining that the move is designed to help associations benefit from football’s commercial growth without compromising the game’s governance or spirit.
