Gianni Infantino is reportedly preparing a major shake-up of FIFA’s commercial model. According to The Times and The Telegraph, the FIFA president wants to create a new company that would manage the commercial rights of the men’s and women’s World Cups, as well as the Club World Cup. FIFA would keep a majority stake, while private investors could acquire between 20 and 30% of the new structure, which could be worth around €17.3 billion.
The project would represent one of the biggest financial moves in football history. FIFA’s 211 member associations could each receive a stake valued at around €17 million, giving them the option to keep their shares or sell them for additional revenue.
However, the arrival of private investors has already raised concerns, especially because some figures close to Donald Trump’s circle reportedly showed interest in the operation. Critics fear that financial pressure could push FIFA to organize more competitions or prioritize commercial interests over sporting decisions.
UEFA has strongly criticized the plan and called for more transparency in football governance. “The soul and governance of football are not assets for sale,” the European body said, warning that FIFA should not treat the sport as a financial product. The controversy has also increased speculation about Infantino’s future, with reports suggesting he could take a leading role in the new company after leaving FIFA in 2031.
