Key facts
- The FA has called for a review of FIFA's leadership and governance.
- FIFA's plan to sell minority stakes in FIFA Forward Enterprise was canceled.
- The proposed sale aimed to raise £3.1 billion.
- UEFA and other football bodies condemned the plan.
- Carlos Codeiro resigned as a senior advisor to Infantino over the proposal.
The Football Association (FA) has joined other governing bodies in condemning FIFA President Gianni Infantino's controversial plan to sell minority stakes in a new subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which would oversee commercial rights for future tournaments. The proposal, announced on July 30, 2026, aimed to raise £3.1 billion by selling shares in FFE, valued at approximately £15 billion, and included an incentive payment of £30 million for those who accepted by September 19.
However, the plan quickly faced backlash. UEFA issued a furious statement accusing FIFA of seeking to "enrich themselves," while other federations like Concacaf and AFC also strongly condemned the idea. Even Infantino's senior advisor, Carlos Codeiro, resigned in opposition, describing it as a "bad deal for the game." FIFA's chief operating officer, Kevin Lamour, reportedly felt "deceived."
Facing widespread opposition, including threats from Spain and Portugal to withdraw from hosting the 2030 World Cup, FIFA confirmed on August 1, 2026, that it would not proceed with the sell-off plans. UEFA subsequently declared a loss of confidence in Infantino, calling the scheme a "shabby, back-room deal."
In response, the FA released a statement fully supporting UEFA's position and demanding a "full and robust review of FIFA's leadership and governance" to ensure transparency and the long-term stewardship of football. Despite the significant backlash, former FA chairman David Bernstein suggested that Infantino's tenure as FIFA president might continue if he retains the support of national associations, noting that "FIFA is not a normal organisation."