FIFA has announced it will continue with an "open and democratic" consultation process on its proposed private investment plan despite significant opposition from its member associations. The plan, revealed on Tuesday, aims to raise up to $US4.2 billion ($6 billion) based on a $US20 billion valuation of the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a commercial subsidiary intended to manage events such as the World Cup and Club World Cup.
If approved, the project could provide each of FIFA's 211 member associations with a one-off payment of $US20 million in early 2027 and increase funding allocations. However, opposition has been strong, with all 41 member associations of UEFA reportedly rejecting the proposal and pledging to boycott the World Cup if the sale proceeds.
Carlos Cordeiro, senior adviser to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, resigned in protest against the prospective sale, calling it "a bad deal for FIFA's Member Associations, a bad deal for football, and a bad deal for the long-term future of the game."
FIFA responded by emphasizing the importance of allowing all member associations to consider the plan and express their votes based on facts. "We respect the feedback and concern aired in public and reaffirm our commitment to an open and democratic consultation," the organization said. FIFA also stated, "This is not something FIFA would ever entertain" in reference to abandoning the plan.
The controversy highlights tensions within world football's governing body as it seeks new funding avenues amid resistance from its members.
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