Here is the latest update from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of 2026-07-28 16:16:00.
UEFA has firmly opposed FIFA’s recent initiative to sell stakes in the World Cup, describing it as a “line that football’s governing institutions should never cross.” According to UEFA, the World Cup is “not FIFA’s to sell.”
FIFA’s Controversial Proposal
On Tuesday, FIFA President Gianni Infantino introduced a plan to establish a $20 billion company intended to manage the World Cup and other significant football competitions, potentially involving private investors like the Kushner family.
The proposal includes the formation of a new entity named the “FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE),” which would be responsible for overseeing tournaments such as the World Cup and the Club World Cup. Details of this initiative were initially revealed by The Times of London and the Financial Times.
FIFA claims the FFE could generate up to $4.2 billion in funding this year for development programs, based on a valuation of the company. The organization plans to partner with J.P. Morgan, and prospective investors include Thrive Eternal, a firm launched by Joshua Kushner, brother of Jared Kushner, who is linked to Donald Trump.
This month’s men’s World Cup has intensified conversations surrounding the political connections between Trump and Infantino, raising concerns from UEFA regarding these ties.
UEFA’s Strong Response
FIFA asserts that the FFE would be FIFA-owned, centralizing its commercial and event operations. However, UEFA has expressed strong objections to this idea, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in football governance.
In a statement, UEFA declared, “This crosses a line that football’s governing institutions should never cross.” They called for all stakeholders—leagues, clubs, players, and supporters—to take the issue seriously, insisting that football’s governance should not be treated as marketable assets.
Infantino, currently 56 years old, is set to run for reelection next year. If successful, he could remain in his position until 2031, when term limits would force him to step down. Speculations suggest he may transition to run the FFE after his FIFA tenure.
FIFA is recognized as a non-profit association based in Switzerland, representing 211 national member federations worldwide. Any proposed plan requires approval from these members, who could each obtain up to $20 million in initial capital.
At a scheduled online congress on November 23, FIFA will discuss the hosts for future Women’s World Cup editions in 2031 and 2035.
FAQs
What is the FIFA Forward Enterprise?
The FIFA Forward Enterprise is a proposed company managing major competitions, with ambitions for significant private investment.
Why did UEFA oppose FIFA’s plan?
UEFA believes the plan compromises the integrity of football governance and treats its values as sellable assets.
Quick Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-07-28 16:16:00
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Tags: #UEFA #blasts #FIFA #proposal #10B #World #Cup #private #investment
Tags: #UEFA #blasts #FIFA #proposal #10B #World #Cup #private #investment
