Pinnick Supports FIFA's 20% Stake Sale Proposal

Amaju Pinnick, the former President of the Nigeria Football Federation and current deputy chairperson of FIFA’s Men’s National Teams Competitions Committee, has endorsed FIFA's proposal to sell a 20% stake in World Cup operations. Pinnick stated that the initiative should be evaluated on its merits and highlighted FIFA President Gianni Infantino's history of beneficial reforms for football associations globally.

The proposal, which allows private investors to acquire stakes in FIFA competitions, has faced criticism from the Union of European Football Associations and other stakeholders. Pinnick mentioned that Infantino's reforms have significantly increased financial support for member associations, recalling a promise made during Infantino's presidential campaign to raise funding from $200,000 to $1.25 million per association.

Pinnick believes that if approved, the proposal could enable associations to receive up to $20 million, enhancing their financial independence. He also addressed concerns about private investors influencing FIFA, citing the evolution of football through reforms like the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR).