Infantino Proposes $40M Investment Plan for FIFA Stake Sales

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has communicated to all 211 member associations an offer of up to $40 million (£30 million) to those who endorse his proposal to sell stakes in FIFA's major competitions. In a five-page letter, Infantino stated that associations approving the plan by September 19 would be eligible for an initial $20 million (£15 million) starting January 1, 2027, with an additional $20 million to follow.

The proposal includes establishing a commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise, which would oversee FIFA's flagship competitions, including the men's and women's World Cups and the Club World Cup, allowing external investors to acquire minority stakes. Infantino asserted that this initiative could generate up to $10 billion (£7.52 billion) for global football development.

However, the proposal has met with significant opposition, particularly from the Football Association, which expressed concerns over the lack of consultation and transparency. UEFA's 55 member associations are set to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the implications of FIFA's proposal.