UEFA warns FIFA against selling stakes in World Cup as private investment plans emerge

European football's governing body, UEFA, has issued a strong warning to FIFA following reports that the world football body is seeking private investment in the World Cup and other tournaments.

FIFA announced on Tuesday that it intends to create a semi-private subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE). This entity would sell minority, non-controlling stakes in the business operations of the World Cup and other events. While FIFA would retain majority control, the aim is to raise $4.2 billion from long-term investors later this year.

UEFA's reaction came after reports in British newspaper The Times suggested that FIFA President Gianni Infantino could personally benefit from the scheme after his proposed next term ends in 2031. The reports also indicated that discussions with potential investors are already underway. Among those reportedly involved are Thrive Capital, an investment company founded by Joshua Kushner (brother of Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trump's son-in-law), and a subsidiary of JP Morgan Chase, the US bank that previously attempted to finance the European Super League.

FIFA has stated that each of its 211 member associations would be given the opportunity to take a one-off stake of $20 million in the FFE.

The plan has raised concerns about governance and the commercialisation of football's flagship event. UEFA's statement called into question FIFA's authority to sell rights to the World Cup, asserting that the tournament belongs to the global football community, not to FIFA alone.

This development adds to ongoing tensions between world and European football bodies, particularly after the failed European Super League project and reforms to the international match calendar.