FIFA President Gianni Infantino has officially abandoned the governing body’s controversial proposal to sell minority stakes in its flagship competitions, including the men’s and women’s World Cups.
- Reason for Cancellation: Infantino admitted the plan had become divisive, creating disagreements among football associations worldwide.
- Proposal Details: The initiative would have created a new commercial subsidiary to oversee FIFA’s major tournaments, allowing outside investors to purchase minority, non-controlling stakes.
- Financial Incentive: Reports suggested Infantino had offered each of FIFA’s 211 member associations up to $40 million (£30 million) if they endorsed the plan.
- Outcome: In a statement, Infantino said: “As a result, this proposal will not proceed.”
This decision comes after widespread resistance from global football associations, reaffirming FIFA’s commitment to keeping control of its most prestigious competitions within the football community.
