World football governing body FIFA has reaffirmed its commitment to consulting stakeholders on its proposed private investment initiative, insisting the process will move forward despite strong opposition from UEFA.
The statement comes after the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) threatened to boycott the FIFA World Cup over plans to establish a commercial subsidiary that would manage FIFA’s flagship competitions and allow private investors to acquire minority stakes in the business.
Responding to the criticism on Friday, FIFA said all of its 211 member associations would have the opportunity to examine the proposal before any decision is taken.
“Nobody is selling football,” FIFA said in a statement.
“This is not something FIFA would ever entertain.”
The governing body said it had taken note of concerns raised by continental confederations, including UEFA and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF), but stressed that the consultation process would continue.
“We respect the feedback and concern aired in public and reaffirm our commitment to an open and democratic consultation,” the statement said.
“Our planned consultation process was disrupted by incorrect media reports. We will proceed with this consultation process to ensure that each (member association) has the ability to express its vote based on facts.”
Under the proposal, FIFA aims to establish the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a commercial entity valued at approximately $20 billion that could generate up to $4.2 billion through minority private investment.
If approved by member associations, the initiative would provide each of FIFA’s 211 member associations with a one-off payment of $20 million in early 2027. It would also increase their funding allocation for the 2027–2030 cycle from $8 million to $20 million.
The proposal has sparked debate within global football, with supporters arguing it could significantly expand development funding, while critics warn against introducing private investors into the governance and commercial operations of the sport’s most prestigious competitions.
AFP
