The global football confederation of Asia.
FIFA has moved to create a 20 billion-dollar subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), to run the World Cup and related events, with up to 20% offered to private investors. The plan has drawn swift backlash from UEFA, Concacaf, and others who warn it could threaten football’s governance and the sport’s “soul.” Deadlines for member associations to opt in are set for 19 September.
The FIFA Forward Enterprise plan has been abandoned after mounting opposition from UEFA, CONCACAF, AFC and member associations. Infantino’s push faced protests, resignations, and internal criticism, and FIFA has scrapped the private joint venture and related funding scheme.
The Asian Football Confederation, UEFA and CONCACAF have voiced strong opposition to FIFA Forward Enterprise, warning that it cannot win broad consensus. FIFA insists on continuing consultations ahead of a vote, while confederations press for governance reforms. The rhetoric signals a potential World Cup boycott if the plan proceeds.
Infantino has scrapped a plan to sell stakes in World Cup events after strong opposition from UEFA, AFC and Concacaf. Senior advisers have resigned, and critics say the move undermines FIFA’s leadership. The push now shifts to whether Infantino can survive his presidency amid looming calls for reform.
Gianni Infantino has opened the door to expanding the World Cup to 64 teams, saying it will be examined after the 2026 tournament. He argues 64 teams could be organized to include more nations, though some leaders warn of chaos. The 2030 edition, co-hosted by Spain, Portugal and Morocco, looms as the potential stage for any expansion.
A mix of sources shows momentum for expanding the World Cup beyond 48 teams. CONMEBOL and some FIFA officials advocate a 64-team format for 2030, while others remain skeptical about logistics and the broader impact on the football ecosystem.
Infantino has proposed a US$20 billion FIFA subsidiary, 20% privately owned, to run World Cups and Club World Cups, drawing sharp ire from UEFA and other associations. The move promises $20 million per member in funding if approved, while critics warn it could undermine traditional World Cup ownership and fan control.
FIFA has proposed a $20 billion subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise, to run the World Cup and related events, offering up to 20% minority stakes to private investors. FIFA would keep control but plans to raise up to $4.2 billion. CONCACAF, AFC, UEFA and others have criticised the move for a lack of consultation and governance concerns amid a global backlash.