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FIFA have offered it 211 member associations up to $40 million in funding as President Gianni Infantino seeks support for a controversial plan to allow private investment in the governing body’s commercial operations.
In a letter sent to national football federations, Infantino said associations that approve the proposal by September 19 will receive an initial $20 million from January 1, 2027, with a further $20 million available later under the initiative.
Funding tied to support
The proposal centres on the creation of FIFA Forward Enterprise, a commercial subsidiary that will manage the organization’s major competitions, including the FIFA World Cup.
Under the plan, FIFA would sell a minority stake in the new entity to outside investors while retaining overall control.
The governing body believes the move could generate up to $10 billion in additional revenue, which it says will be reinvested into football development worldwide.
In his letter to member associations, Infantino defended the proposal and urged federations to support what he described as a transformative opportunity.
“It is my duty and responsibility as FIFA president to present such game-changing opportunities to you, our members.
“It is equally my duty and responsibility to ensure such proposals are sufficiently complete and feasible, replete with substantiated figures and clear terms to assist you in the decision-making process.”
Proposal sparks governance concerns
The plan has attracted strong criticism from several football stakeholders, with concerns focusing on governance, transparency and the speed of the process.
Some FIFA officials reportedly claimed they were not fully informed about the proposal before its public announcement, while several confederations have questioned how the decision was developed.
The English Football Association also expressed reservations, saying it had not been consulted before the proposal emerged.
“We were completely unaware of this proposal and have no substantive details, including what the proposition actually is and what conditions are attached.
“Based on the limited information, we are deeply concerned about the lack of process and governance to get to this point, and the apparent substance and principles involved.
“When the proposal is shared in the full and transparent way now promised by FIFA, we will make our views clear and comment further.”
Member associations have until September 19 to decide whether to back the proposal.