FIFA Sticks to $4.2bn Investment Plan Amid UEFA Threat

FIFA has reaffirmed its commitment to a $4.2 billion investment plan, countering opposition from UEFA, which has threatened to withdraw from future World Cups. FIFA is establishing FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a company that will manage the commercial rights of major competitions, including the World Cup and Club World Cup.

FIFA stated, “Nobody is selling football,” and emphasized that it would not entertain the idea of selling the sport. The organization plans to consult all 211 national football federations before making any decisions regarding the proposal.

FIFA also addressed media reports of financial irregularities, describing them as "damaging" to its consultation process. The investment proposal could generate approximately $4.2 billion and value the new venture at around $20 billion.

Member associations that vote in favor of the proposal would receive a one-off payment of $20 million in early 2027, with their funding allocation for the 2027-2030 cycle increasing from $8 million to $20 million.