FIFA President Gianni Infantino is reportedly advancing plans to establish a new company that would oversee the World Cup, with minority stakes offered to private investors. The deal, potentially valued at around KSh 2.6 trillion (£15 billion), aims to reshape the management of football's flagship tournament.
According to reports, preliminary agreements have been signed, with FIFA retaining majority ownership while distributing minority shares to investors and all 211 member associations. The transaction process is said to be managed by American investment bank JP Morgan.
Political and Leadership Dimensions
Infantino has consulted with the Donald Trump administration regarding the proposal, signaling significant political involvement. Sources suggest Infantino plans to assume the role of commissioner for the new entity after his FIFA presidency ends in 2031. His close ties with Trump, including receiving FIFA's inaugural Peace Prize, highlight an unusual alliance that could influence future global sports governance.
Concerns Within Football Circles
The plan has met resistance from senior football officials worried about its impact on the international football calendar. Critics caution that the restructuring could lead to an expanded or more frequent World Cup, disrupting the current four-year cycle and potentially undermining the sport's integrity and traditional rhythm.
While no final agreement has been reached, the prospect of such changes has generated unease among key stakeholders who advocate for preserving the established tournament format.
