FIFA Faces Backlash Over World Cup Privatization Plan

On July 31, 2026, the pressure on FIFA President Gianni Infantino to abandon the World Cup privatization plan has increased. This plan could attract up to $20 billion in investments but has faced harsh criticism from numerous global soccer governing bodies.

Recently, a senior adviser to Infantino resigned in protest. On the same day, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) expressed deep concerns over the development of the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), the fund tied to this initiative.

The AFC stands with UEFA and CONCACAF in voicing serious concerns about FIFA’s proposal to introduce private investment in its major competitions and the decision-making process surrounding the FFE.

Both UEFA, representing Europe, and CONCACAF, covering North America including the U.S., had already criticized the proposal. On Thursday, CONCACAF released a statement expressing profound concerns about the lack of due process, the rushed timeline, and the absence of review by FIFA’s governance bodies. They also questioned the necessity for external investment following the most profitable World Cup ever.

Photos from the 2026 final show President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino with the World Cup trophy, after Spain’s victory over Argentina, at New York’s MetLife Stadium.

The secret project involves creating a $20 billion FFE subsidiary, with private investors owning 20%. The primary investor is a New York-based firm founded by Joshua Kushner, President Trump’s son-in-law’s brother.

The successful World Cup hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada featured record attendance and viewership. Visitors praised the event’s venues and the cities hosting over 100 matches during the month-long tournament. Spain won its second World Cup by defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time at MetLife Stadium on July 19.

Following intense media scrutiny, FIFA blamed the media for disrupting its consultation process. FIFA stated, Our planned consultation process was disrupted by incorrect media reports. We will ensure each member can vote based on facts.

Carlos Cordeiro, a former Goldman Sachs banker and Infantino’s senior adviser, resigned due to the plan. Despite being Infantino’s pick for the White House Task Force for the World Cup, Cordeiro was not involved in the secretive investment plan. I cannot stand by while FIFA considers selling a stake in the World Cup, Cordeiro declared in his resignation.

Cordeiro’s resignation has heightened scrutiny on Infantino. Frequently seen working alongside Infantino, Cordeiro has often accompanied him to the White House for World Cup-related discussions led by task force leader Andrew Guiliani.

Cordeiro, also the former U.S. Soccer Federation president, made his opposition clear. I had no involvement in this proposal, and I oppose it unequivocally, he stated.