FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended his controversial plan to create a commercial entity open to private investors to sell stakes in the World Cup, aiming to increase football revenue. He called it "an opportunity, not an obligation."
In a video released by FIFA, Gianni Infantino stated that the plan was "a proposal, a solution," and part of a "democratic process." He said, "First of all, this is just an opportunity, not an obligation... This marks the beginning of the consultation process."
These comments come after FIFA and several major football associations, particularly the English and French Football Federations, have expressed negative reactions to the plan, which was announced on Tuesday and is seen as a potential power shift.
Infantino reiterated the commitment he made in Tuesday's statement. He announced the plan at a time that surprised many in the football world, who said they had not been consulted beforehand.
Infantino said: "Of the ever-growing commercial value of football, far too little actually flows to those who need help the most in the sport. It's a goldmine for promoting global football. But I want to emphasize again that this is just a proposal, not an obligation."
The investment from private investors could allow each of FIFA's 211 member associations to receive approximately $20 million, provided they agree to the arrangement.
"We want to help build the next Cape Verdean national team," Infantino said, referring to the team as one of the biggest dark horses of the 2026 World Cup, and their first appearance in the tournament. He then concluded, "However, again, this is ultimately a decision for the members."
