FIFA insists 'nobody is selling football' after UEFA threatens to boycott tournaments if plans to sell off stake in World Cup go ahead

FIFA has defended its plan to consult member associations on creating FIFA Forward Enterprise, a proposed commercial structure that could allow private investors to take a minority stake in a World Cup-related business entity. The governing body said it was not attempting to sell the sport and argued the proposal was intended to give national associations a stronger role in football’s commercial development. FIFA said it would continue with the consultation despite sharp criticism, stating that member associations should be able to review the proposal and vote based on accurate information. President Gianni Infantino has supported the idea, and the article says an investor group linked to Thrive Eternal is positioned as a possible backer.

The proposal has triggered major opposition from football bodies. UEFA’s 55 national associations said they would refuse to take part in FIFA competitions unless the plan is dropped and assurances are made against private ownership of FIFA governance or competitions. CONCACAF also rejected the proposal, while European and global league organizations expressed concern that private investment could encourage larger or more frequent FIFA tournaments, adding pressure to domestic football calendars. The article also includes commentary from Sky Sports News’ Kaveh Solhekol, who argues that Infantino is facing a serious leadership crisis, has underestimated the opposition, and should apologize rather than blame media reporting. The piece frames the dispute as a significant challenge to Infantino’s authority and to FIFA’s ability to advance the proposal without support from major confederations.

Summary generated July 31, 2026. AI summaries can make mistakes.