FIFA has defended its proposed private investment plan, stressing that “nobody is selling football” after criticism from several football associations and governing bodies over its plans to bring external investors into the commercial operations of its tournaments.
The clarification comes amid growing debate over FIFA’s proposal to establish a new commercial entity to attract long-term investment while maintaining that the sport and its competitions will remain under FIFA’s control.
In its clarification, FIFA said the proposal does not involve selling football or transferring ownership of the FIFA World Cup.
The organization emphasized that:
- Football itself is not for sale.
- FIFA competitions will continue to be governed by FIFA.
- Member associations will retain the power to approve major decisions.
- The objective is to generate additional resources for the development of football worldwide.
Under the proposal, FIFA plans to create a new commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), with an estimated valuation of $20 billion.
Key features of the proposal include:
- Establishment of a separate company to manage the commercial and event operations of FIFA competitions.
- Offering minority, non-controlling stakes of up to 20% to external investors.
- Using the capital raised to strengthen football development programmes globally.
The proposal has faced strong opposition from several football bodies.
Among the concerns raised are:
- Commercialisation of the FIFA World Cup.
- Potential influence of private investors over football’s future.
- Lack of broader consultation before the proposal was presented.
UEFA has been one of the strongest critics, arguing that the World Cup should remain a global sporting asset rather than a commercial investment vehicle. Reports indicate UEFA has even discussed a possible boycott if the proposal proceeds unchanged.
FIFA maintains that the investment model is intended to generate sustainable funding for football development.
According to the governing body, additional financial resources would help:
- Expand football development programmes.
- Increase funding for member associations.
- Invest in grassroots football.
- Support infrastructure and future competitions.
FIFA says all major decisions will continue to require approval from its 211 member associations.
Despite the criticism, FIFA has confirmed that it will continue consulting its member associations regarding the proposal before any final decision is taken.
The organization has reiterated that transparency and democratic decision-making remain central to the process.
