FIFA's Gianni Infantino sets deadline to approve funding plan

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has given the organization's 211 member federations until Sept. 19 to support a private investment proposal that could provide each association with up to $40 million in funding.

Infantino outlined the deadline in a letter promoting the creation of FIFA Forward Enterprise, a subsidiary valued at approximately $20 billion that would handle commercial operations connected to the World Cup, Club World Cup and other FIFA competitions.

Outside investors could purchase a stake of up to 20%, while FIFA would retain majority ownership and control over sporting and governance decisions. Thrive Capital, founded by Joshua Kushner, has been linked to the prospective investor group.

Under the plan, FIFA says it could make $10 billion available for development beginning in 2027. Each federation would be eligible for up to $20 million in one-time Fast Forward funding, in addition to $20 million through the regular FIFA Forward program during the 2027-30 cycle.

Without approval, FIFA projects a smaller development package totaling approximately $2.7 billion.

The proposal requires support from more than half of the member associations and approval from the FIFA Council.

UEFA has strongly opposed the plan, criticizing FIFA for setting a deadline before conducting broader consultations. CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation have also raised concerns about transparency and the limited opportunity for stakeholders to study the proposal.

European officials are expected to discuss possible responses, with a boycott of FIFA competitions reportedly among the options being considered.

--Field Level Media