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According to the Associated Press, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has officially abandoned a controversial plan to sell a 20 percent stake in a newly created commercial entity to private investors, leaving the global football chief increasingly isolated after widespread pushback from major confederations and high-level resignations within his own inner circle.
The Collapsing Commercial Plan for World Cup Rights
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that he will not proceed with the controversial plan to sell a portion of the organization’s commercial rights to private investors, according to the Associated Press. The aborted project involved the creation of a corporate entity named “FIFA Forward Enterprise,” which was designed to manage the commercial aspects of tournaments organized by the global governing body. Under the shelved proposal, FIFA would have sold a 20-percent stake in the enterprise to Joshua Kushner, the owner of an investment firm and brother to Donald Trump’s son-in-law, according to disclosures reported during the fallout.
Internal Resignations and White House Advisor Fallout
The project unraveled rapidly on a Friday evening when two key advisors abandoned the initiative just hours apart. Carlos Cordeiro, a prominent advisor to the FIFA president and a White House advisor for the World Cup, resigned from his position at FIFA in protest of the commercial rights sale. Cordeiro became the first official from inside the organization to publicly oppose the project. Just six hours later, FIFA Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour also distanced himself from the president’s plan. Lamour risked his position by openly criticizing the proposal and urging national federations to consider removing Infantino, pointing directly to the president as the architect behind “FIFA Forward Enterprise.”
Opposition from UEFA, CONCACAF, and AFC
The internal revolt gained unstoppable momentum when three major football confederations mobilized against the leadership. UEFA, CONCACAF, and AFC jointly represent 135 national associations, accounting for 64 percent of FIFA’s total member base. The sheer voting power and unified resistance of these three bodies created insurmountable pressure, forcing Infantino to scrap the enterprise before it could be formally enacted. As the plan collapsed, fans on social media mocked the isolated executive, with one viral comment comparing Infantino to the stranded character in the film Cast Away.
Donald Trump Denies Knowledge of the Privatization Plan
US President Donald Trump distanced himself from the scandal, denying any prior knowledge of the FIFA privatization scheme despite his historically close relationship with Infantino. When questioned by reporters about whether the FIFA president had spoken to him regarding a proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup, Trump responded, “Kto?!” After the question was repeated, Trump stated, according to verified reporting, “No, I haven’t spoken to him.” The denial leaves Infantino without key political backing as the fallout from the failed corporate restructuring continues to ripple through international sports administration.
Did you know? UEFA, CONCACAF, and AFC represent 135 national football federations, giving them 64 percent of FIFA’s member base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who proposed selling a stake in FIFA’s commercial rights?
According to the Associated Press, FIFA President Gianni Infantino was the architect behind the plan to create “FIFA Forward Enterprise” and sell a 20 percent stake to private investors.
Which confederations opposed the plan?
UEFA, CONCACAF, and AFC led the opposition against the privatization scheme, representing 64 percent of FIFA’s total member associations.
Who resigned from FIFA over the controversy?
Carlos Cordeiro, a top advisor to the FIFA president and White House advisor for the World Cup, resigned first, followed six hours later by FIFA Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour.
Did US President Donald Trump know about the proposal?
No. Donald Trump publicly denied speaking with Gianni Infantino about the proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup.
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