UEFA Responds Strongly to FIFA’s Investment Plans for World Cup
European football’s governing body, UEFA, has expressed strong disapproval regarding FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s idea to sell portions of the men’s FIFA World Cup to investors. UEFA has labeled this proposal a serious overstep, emphasizing that the tournament is “not FIFA’s to sell.”
Recent reports from major news outlets indicate that FIFA is considering a plan where it would maintain majority control of the World Cup while offering minority stakes to its 211 member associations and private investors. This initiative is reportedly part of a broader aim to boost funding for football development to over $10 billion.
FIFA claims its goal is to enhance global football investments, pending approval from its member associations. However, UEFA quickly criticized the plan, stating that “this crosses a line” that should never be crossed by football’s governing bodies.
In a statement, UEFA highlighted that this issue should concern everyone involved in football, including national associations, leagues, clubs, players, and fans. They emphasized that “the soul and governance of football are not to be treated as assets,” especially with so much uncertainty about financial beneficiaries.
The proposal suggests that while FIFA would still oversee the World Cup, it would welcome outside investment through a new commercial framework. Some reports hint that this arrangement could allow Infantino to take on a lucrative role as “commissioner” of the World Cup after his presidency ends in 2031.
The potential investment is expected to be led by Joshua Kushner through his Thrive Eternal fund, which is focused on long-term investments in franchises and cultural institutions. Thrive Eternal has already acquired a minority share in Major League Baseball’s San Francisco Giants this year. Notably, Joshua Kushner is the brother of Jared Kushner, who is married to Ivanka Trump, the daughter of the former U.S. President.
FIFA has yet to issue a public response to these reports. This controversy follows the recent conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, during which Infantino defended FIFA’s management of the event in a lengthy statement shared online. He described the World Cup as “the best show in the world” and highlighted the joy it brought to millions of fans.
Infantino’s comments also targeted critics, stating that while they spread negativity, fans around the world were celebrating together. Throughout the tournament, FIFA and Infantino faced various criticisms, including issues related to referees, ticket costs, and political controversies.
As the world continues to watch the developments unfold, it remains to be seen how this situation will impact the future of football governance and investment.
