Carlos Cordeiro, a senior adviser to Fifa President Gianni Infantino, has stepped down following widespread opposition from major football confederations to Infantino’s proposal to sell stakes in Fifa competitions to private investors.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) joined UEFA and Concacaf in opposing the plan, emphasizing the risk it poses to the unity and integrity of global football. The AFC highlighted Fifa’s failure to consult member associations adequately before announcing the initiative, calling for a review of Fifa’s governance and decision-making processes.

Opposition from Key Confederations

  • The AFC stated the World Cup, as football’s premier event, must preserve its universal character and warned against proposals that could undermine this.
  • UEFA has threatened to boycott future World Cups if the plan proceeds, describing the World Cup as a legacy that should never be commercialized.
  • Concacaf also publicly rejected the proposals, adding to the growing resistance within Fifa’s membership.

Carlos Cordeiro’s Concerns

Cordeiro, who served nearly five years as senior adviser on global strategy and governance, criticized the proposal as a “bad deal for football” that risks mortgaging the sport’s future. He expressed concerns over the lack of transparency and unanswered questions about the deal’s timing, oversight, and beneficiaries.

He emphasized that Fifa’s responsibility is to protect football rather than prioritize commercial returns, stating that the rushed decision-making process is irresponsible given the proposal’s significant impact.

Infantino’s Proposal

The plan involves creating a commercial subsidiary, Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE), to manage Fifa’s major tournaments, including the World Cup. Private investors would be invited to acquire minority stakes in this entity. The proposal aims to increase financial returns to member associations but has raised fears about privatizing football’s flagship events.

Thrive Eternal, a US venture capital firm linked to Joshua Kushner, is expected to lead the investor group if the plan gains approval.

Mixed Reactions Among Member Associations

While many confederations oppose the plan, some smaller football nations see potential benefits from increased funding. Representatives from the Ugandan Football Federation noted that additional resources could support infrastructure and grassroots development, especially in Africa where funding is limited.

Fifa has highlighted its increased financial support through the Fifa Forward development program, which has grown funding by 30% in recent years.

Despite the backlash, Fifa has vowed to continue with the plans, maintaining that football is not for sale and that consultation has been ongoing despite media reports suggesting otherwise.