FIFA Withdraws Controversial Investment Proposal

FIFA has decided to withdraw its controversial proposal that would have allowed private investors to buy stakes in its major football competitions, including the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cups. FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced this decision, stating that the proposal had become a source of division within global football and was no longer in line with its original objectives.

The plan aimed to create a new commercial subsidiary to manage FIFA's biggest tournaments and promised member associations up to $40 million in support. However, it faced significant backlash from several football confederations, notably UEFA, which warned of potential boycotts of future World Cups.

The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (Concacaf) and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) also opposed the plan. The internal crisis led to the resignation of Carlos Cordeiro, a senior adviser, and criticism from FIFA's Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour.

Infantino emphasized the need to rebuild trust and work closely with football stakeholders moving forward.