FIFA President Proposes Selling World Cup Stakes to Private Investors
FIFA President Proposes Selling World Cup Stakes to Private Investors
US · Published Jul 29, 2026
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has proposed selling stakes in the World Cup to private investors, a move that could shift control of the tournament away from FIFA. According to Yahoo Sports, Infantino is in discussions with private entities, including Joshua Kushner, brother of Jared Kushner, to form a new corporation that would oversee the World Cup and other tournaments. The plan, if approved, would allow FIFA's 211 member nations to receive stakes worth approximately $20 million each, valuing the new entity at $4.22 billion. Infantino aims to serve as commissioner of this new corporation after his term as FIFA president ends in
The proposal has sparked significant backlash, with UEFA condemning it as a threat to the governance and integrity of football.

Impact & Risks

The proposed privatization of the World Cup could have far-reaching consequences for global soccer. Smaller nations may sell their stakes due to financial pressures, potentially concentrating control in the hands of private investors. Critics, including UEFA, warn that this could undermine the democratic governance of football and prioritize profit over the sport's integrity. Additionally, the lack of transparency regarding the identities of potential investors has raised concerns about corruption and conflicts of interest. The plan could also lead to more frequent tournaments, altering the traditional structure of the World Cup.

Related News