FIFA seeks $4.2B stake sale, UEFA threatens Cup boycott

FIFA, world soccer's governing body, is facing intense international backlash over a plan to sell minority stakes in its commercial operations to private investors, a proposal that has prompted UEFA to consider a boycott of future World Cups. The controversy erupted after FIFA announced on July 28, 2026, its intention to create a $20 billion commercial subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which would consolidate its tournament and commercial rights.

The plan aims to raise up to $4.2 billion by selling minority, non-controlling interests to external investors. FIFA stated it would retain exclusive control over all sporting decisions, governance, and competitions. President Gianni Infantino framed the initiative as essential for global development, claiming it would direct more than $10 billion to FIFA's 211 member associations over the next four years. Under the proposal, each association's development funding would increase from a budgeted $8 million to $20 million for the 2027-2030 cycle, with an optional one-time $20 million payment also available.

The announcement triggered an immediate and fierce condemnation from UEFA, European soccer's governing body. In a...