FIFA aims to raise $4.2 billion by selling a 21% stake in a new entity called FIFA Forward Enterprise, which would consolidate World Cup broadcast rights, ticketing, licensing, and sponsorship revenue. The move targets a $20 billion valuation for this private vehicle, a significant shift from FIFA’s traditional funding model.
The plan has already sparked backlash from UEFA, which condemned the idea of trading football’s governance as a commercial asset. The European football body sees this as crossing a line, warning that the sport should remain beyond the reach of private investors.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended the initiative, framing it as reinvestment in the sport rather than a sale. This comes after the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, generated a record $15 billion in revenue. Investors in FIFA Forward Enterprise would receive a direct cut of future profits, while member federations could get payouts up to $86 million each over 12 years.
Outside interest in the World Cup’s commercial side has been growing, with crypto exchange Kraken becoming a supporter this year, though no official crypto sponsors yet participate in the tournament’s core deals. FIFA’s new approach contrasts with its existing sponsorship structure and raises concerns about ticket prices and broadcast availability. The move could also intensify debates around the congested football calendar.
This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
