Key facts
- FIFA plans to sell up to 21% of FIFA Forward Enterprises.
- FIFA Forward Enterprises will hold World Cup commercial rights.
- The sale is expected to raise an estimated $4.2 billion.
- The funds are intended to triple development funding for member associations.
- FIFA has 211 member associations.
- Thrive Capital is expected to lead the investor group.
FIFA is embarking on a significant financial restructuring by planning to sell a stake of up to 21% in a newly formed entity, FIFA Forward Enterprises. This entity will house FIFA's commercial rights for the World Cup. The proposed sale is expected to generate an estimated $4.2 billion from private investors. The primary objective of this initiative is to substantially increase the development funding available to FIFA's 211 member associations, with the goal of tripling the current levels of support. Thrive Capital is reportedly in line to lead the consortium of private investors participating in this deal. This move represents a notable shift in how FIFA plans to finance its global development programs and operations.