Main decision-making body of FIFA, the global football federation
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.
FIFA has scrapped the Forward Enterprises plan after mounting opposition from UEFA, CONCACAF, AFC and member associations. Infantino’s private venture faced resignations and internal criticism, leading FIFA to terminate the project and reaffirm a commitment to open consultation.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has seen European and several other confederations pull back support after the aborted Forward Enterprise plan to privatise parts of the World Cup, amid varied backing from South American and African bodies.
FIFA has apologised for the mishandling of the FIFA Forward Enterprise plan and confirms the project is off the table. UEFA, CONCACAF and others are pressing for governance reforms as Infantino faces sustained criticism ahead of the 2027 election.
European football bodies keep pressure on Gianni Infantino after the aborted FFE plan. UEFA has lost confidence and a broad boycott threat remains in motion; multiple confederations express opposition or support as the 2027 election nears.
The European, North American and Asian confederations have publicly questioned Gianni Infantino’s leadership after the aborted Football Forward Enterprise plan to sell a stake in the World Cup. They call for an independent review and promise to seek unity in leadership that serves football.
The FFF has withdrawn its support for Gianni Infantino amid concerns over FIFA’s governance and plans to sell World Cup stakes. UEFA and other confederations join in pressing for reform as Infantino plans to stand again in 2027.
CEFERIN and MONTAGLIANI propose at least $10m to every FIFA member association in 2027-30, funded from reserves and in addition to the Forward Programme. They call for an independent review and say this would not require sales of tournament stakes. Several confederations are debating governance reforms as Infantino seeks a fourth term.
Infantino has tabled reforms to FIFA’s governance framework, calling for an external review and a structured, time-limited consultation with member associations and confederations. The move follows the aborted FFE plan and mounting pressure from UEFA, CONCACAF and others. Changes would examine roles within FIFA’s leadership and aim to boost transparency and accountability.