FIFA President Gianni Infantino has proposed creating a $20 billion subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), to manage World Cup and Club World Cup commercial rights, with plans to sell minority stakes to private investors, advised by JPMorgan. UEFA issued a fiery statement condemning the move, arguing that football governance is not a commodity and warning of lost transparency and integrity. The plan, which could lead to further World Cup expansion and increased tournament frequency, highlights a major clash over the future commercialization of football.
- Infantino proposed creating the FFE subsidiary to manage World Cup and Club World Cup commercial rights, planning to sell minority stakes to private investors including Thrive Eternal.
- The plan, reportedly worth over $4 billion, could expand the World Cup beyond 48 teams and increase tournament frequency.
- UEFA issued a fiery statement condemning the move, arguing football governance is not a commodity and warning of lost transparency and integrity.