FIFA’s Controversial Plan to Sell World Cup Stakes to Private Investors

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has set a deadline for member federations to accept a $20 million offer as part of a plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors. The plan involves a $20 billion FIFA subsidiary, funded by the brother of Jared Kushner. However, this has sparked criticism from international soccer organizations.

UEFA, the European soccer body, plans to call its 55 member federations to an emergency online meeting to discuss the growing opposition to FIFA’s scheme. UEFA’s statement mentions significant opposition within the soccer community.

Infantino’s initiative aligns with interests connected to U.S. President Donald Trump, including creating a FIFA Peace Prize and facilitating Joshua Kushner’s firm’s investment. His letter outlines the funding opportunity through the $20 billion FIFA subsidiary, partly owned by private investors.

The proposal, backed by Joshua Kushner’s investment firm Thrive Capital, faced instant backlash from Infantino’s former colleagues at UEFA. They argue the World Cup is not FIFA’s to sell and threaten a boycott as a potential response.

FIFA’s private equity plan is one among several ambitious proposals by Infantino during his presidency. Previous initiatives include a FIFA Peace Prize awarded to Trump and an attempted $25 billion private equity plan in 2018, resisted by UEFA.

Concerns about the lack of due process were expressed by continental soccer bodies, including CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation. They highlight disappointment over the lack of opportunity to discuss the matter before it became public.

Inviting private investors could incentivize FIFA to further commercialize the World Cup, with more hydration breaks and dynamic pricing suggested as possibilities by governance academic Antoine Duval.

Impact on Member Federations

If approved, FIFA member federations will receive $20 million from the commercial cycle tied to the men’s 2030 World Cup. Rejecting the plan will result in $10 million in previously promised funding, according to Infantino’s letter.

The cash difference for FIFA members is $86 million over 12 years versus $36 million for rejecting the deal. UEFA criticizes the quick deadline to claim the initial sum, suggesting it reveals FIFA’s intentions.

Opposition from Britain

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham voiced opposition to FIFA’s plan, emphasizing soccer’s connection to fans rather than investors. The British government plans to support hosting the 2035 Women’s World Cup.

British lawmakers previously helped stop the European Super League project, which threatened UEFA’s Champions League. Infantino was discreetly supportive of it.

Infantino’s Future

Infantino is expected to be reelected unopposed as FIFA president for a fourth term through 2031. Promising increased FIFA funds has been a key element of his speech during elections.

Some suspect Infantino seeks a long-term role in soccer management, perhaps as a CEO or commissioner at a FIFA subsidiary. Recent frustrations with his leadership extend beyond Europe, with an election challenge deadline set for November 18.

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