Key facts
- The European Commission will investigate FIFA's plan to sell stakes in a new commercial entity.
- The proposed deal is valued at $4 billion.
- EU Commissioner Glenn Micallef announced the investigation.
- Concerns cited include the commercialization of football and FIFA's governance.
- The investigation will examine the details of the proposed deal.
- The aim is to ensure compliance with EU regulations.
- The probe addresses potential impacts on the sport's integrity.
The European Commission is set to launch an investigation into FIFA's ambitious plan to sell stakes in a newly formed commercial entity. EU Commissioner Glenn Micallef announced the probe, citing significant concerns over the commercialization of football and FIFA's governance structures. The proposed deal, valued at $4 billion, involves selling equity in a new company that will manage FIFA's commercial rights. Micallef indicated that the commission will thoroughly examine the specifics of this transaction. The investigation aims to ensure that FIFA's commercialization strategy aligns with EU regulations and does not negatively impact the integrity and governance of the sport. This move comes amid growing backlash from various stakeholders within the football community who have expressed apprehension about the potential consequences of such a significant commercial shift. The European Commission's involvement signals a serious scrutiny of FIFA's business practices and its commitment to fair play and transparency in its operations. Further details on the scope and timeline of the investigation are expected to be released in the coming weeks.