FIFA President Gianni Infantino speaks during a press conference at the Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC) in Doha on November 19, 2022, ahead of the Qatar 2022 World Cup football tournament. - Infantino hit back at Western critics of Qatar's human rights record at his opening press conference of the World Cup on November 19, blasting their "hypocrisy". (Photo by FABRICE COFFRINI / AFP)
FIFA Reiterates That Football Is Not for Sale
FIFA has released a statement insisting that football is “not for sale” as it defends a proposal to allow private investors to acquire minority, non‑controlling stakes in a new commercial subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE). The governing body says the move would help member associations benefit from football’s commercial growth without compromising FIFA’s governance or the spirit of the game.
Strong Opposition from UEFA and Concacaf
The statement follows a warning from UEFA that it may boycott future FIFA World Cups if the plan is approved. Concacaf, representing North and Central America and the Caribbean, also confirmed that its 41 member associations have rejected the proposal, citing insufficient consultation and a rushed deadline.
Under the plan, FIFA would create FFE to manage its biggest competitions. Outside investors could purchase minority stakes, but FIFA stresses that no ownership or control of football itself would be transferred. The organisation says the structure preserves its democratic decision‑making process while unlocking new revenue streams for member associations.
UEFA denounced the idea, calling the World Cup a sporting legacy that must never become an investment product. Former Chelsea manager and 2010 World Cup winner Xabi Alonso echoed those sentiments, stating that football belongs to the people and should remain free from private ownership.
FIFA says it will continue consulting its 211 member associations before any decision is taken. Approval of the FFE plan would require the support of at least 106 associations. President Gianni Infantino has previously noted that federations backing the proposal could receive up to $40 million, with an initial $20 million payment available for those who vote before the 19 September deadline.
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