Infantino insists FIFA’s World Cup plan is proposal and not ‘obligation’
FIFA President Gianni Infantino characterized the organization's plan to sell up to 20% stakes in a $20 billion World Cup subsidiary as a proposal rather than a binding obligation, following criticism from regional football confederations who objected to the involvement of private investors.
FIFA has proposed the creation of a $20 billion subsidiary to manage the World Cup and other major tournaments, with plans to offer external investors stakes of up to 20% in the entity. The announcement triggered significant pushback from regional football confederations, which expressed concern about being excluded from the decision-making process and about the introduction of private capital into the sport's governance structure.
In response to the backlash, FIFA President Gianni Infantino sought to clarify the nature of the proposal. He emphasized that the plan represents an opportunity for consultation rather than a mandatory directive, framing it as part of a broader democratic process within the organization. Infantino argued that strengthening the commercial dimensions of football represents a natural progression in the sport's evolution.
Infantino reiterated that FIFA maintains its governing authority over football without external interference and that flagship tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and FIFA Women's World Cup will continue under the organization's stewardship. FIFA, already among the world's wealthiest sports organizations, generates substantial revenue through broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and other commercial arrangements tied to World Cup events.
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