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 Insists Football Is Not for Sale Amid Growing Opposition
FIFA has pushed back against claims that it intends to sell football, defending a proposal that would let private investors acquire minority stakes in a new commercial company set to manage its premier tournaments.
Governing Body’s Statement
In a statement released on Friday, FIFA said reports suggesting it wanted to sell the sport were inaccurate. The governing body pledged to continue consulting its 211 member associations before any decision is taken.
“We respect the feedback and concerns voiced publicly and reaffirm our commitment to an open and democratic consultation,” the statement read. “We will proceed with this process so each member association can vote based on facts. Nobody is selling football; this is something FIFA would never entertain.”
Details of the Proposed Commercial Entity
The plan calls for creating a subsidiary named FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE). Outside investors would be allowed to purchase minority, non‑controlling stakes. FIFA argues the structure would help member associations benefit from football’s commercial growth while preserving the organization’s governance.
Strong Opposition from Continental Bodies
UEFA has threatened to boycott future FIFA World Cups if the proposal is approved, calling the World Cup a sporting legacy that must not become an investment product. Concacaf reported that its 41 member associations rejected the plan, citing insufficient consultation and a tight deadline. The Asian Football Confederation expressed similar reservations, while CAF and Oceania are expected to discuss the matter in August. CONMEBOL has yet to state its position.
Voting Requirements and Incentives
Approval would require support from at least 106 of FIFA’s 211 member associations. FIFA President Gianni Infantino previously told associations they could receive up to $40 million if they back the plan, with an initial $20 million payment available to those that approve before the 19 September deadline.
Voices from the Football Community
Former Chelsea manager and 2010 World Cup winner Xabi Alonso added his voice, saying football should belong to the people, not private hands, and that the sport’s authenticity lies in being shared by everyone.
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