PARIS: FIFA has unveiled plans to sell a minority stake in the commercial business of the FIFA World Cup and its other tournaments, saying the move will help generate fresh investment while allowing the organisation to retain full control over the sport.
The governing body said it intends to create a new semi-private subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), and raise around US$4.2 billion later this year by offering minority, non-controlling stakes to selected long-term investors.
FIFA said it would remain the majority shareholder and retain exclusive authority over football governance, competitions, regulations and the international match calendar.
The organisation estimates the new entity could be valued at US$20 billion and said each of its 211 member associations would have the opportunity to acquire a one-off US$20 million stake.
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FIFA said the funds would support football development worldwide, with total planned investment expected to exceed US$10 billion over the next four years.
The proposal has, however, drawn criticism from several quarters. UEFA warned that football’s governance should not become a commercial asset, while former FIFA president Sepp Blatter questioned the growing influence of private investors in the sport.
British media reports also suggested discussions had begun with potential investors, including US investment firms, although FIFA denied reports that president Gianni Infantino could personally benefit from the new structure after leaving office.
The proposal still requires approval from FIFA’s governing council and a majority of its member associations before it can proceed.
