FIFA faces UEFA-led opposition to $4.2 bn stake sale

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing a major internal revolt over his plan to sell a multibillion-dollar stake in the commercial future of the World Cup to private investors, with the European governing body UEFA leading the opposition. Confidential documents reveal FIFA aims to raise up to $4.2 billion by selling a 20% stake in a newly created subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which would oversee broadcasting, sponsorship, and other revenue streams from FIFA competitions.

The proposal, which FIFA values at $20 billion, would offer each of FIFA's 211 member associations a significant financial incentive to vote in favor. Associations that support the plan could receive a one-off payment of up to $20 million and additional funding through 2038, totaling as much as $86 million per nation. Those rejecting the offer would instead receive funding through FIFA's existing, less lucrative development program. FIFA has set a deadline of September 19 for member associations to decide.

The accelerated timetable and lack of detailed consultation have triggered fierce criticism from football's leading bodies. UEFA issued a scathing statement, asserting that "the soul and...