FIFA to review abandoned World Cup sell-off plan after council backlash forces Infantino's hand

FIFA will present a review of its abandoned Fifa Forward Enterprise proposal to the governing body’s full council, the organisation confirmed, following mounting pressure from member associations over a lack of transparency around the shelved scheme.

The initiative, championed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, had sought to sell a 20 per cent commercial stake in the World Cup and other major tournaments to external financiers. It was withdrawn after fierce opposition from key confederations including UEFA, the AFC, and Concacaf, who demanded sweeping governance reforms. Talks were also held regarding a potential vote of no confidence against Infantino.

The confirmation came after Danish Football Union president Jesper Moller publicly voiced frustration that FIFA had refused to address what he described as “critical questions” during a Legal Committee session. In a statement provided to Reuters, FIFA said: “As previously communicated, a review of the withdrawn Fifa Forward Enterprise proposal will be presented to the Fifa Council.”

The council comprises 37 delegates — Infantino, eight vice-presidents, and 28 representatives elected by member associations worldwide.

Opposition to Infantino’s leadership has widened across Europe in recent weeks. Greek Football Association president Makis Gagatsis and former Germany national team director Oliver Bierhoff both aligned with UEFA’s push for administrative reform on Tuesday, adding to a growing list of European bodies withdrawing their backing for Infantino’s re-election campaign.

Despite the pressure, sources familiar with internal discussions told Reuters that Infantino retains sufficient votes to secure re-election. Critics are now said to be considering a shift in strategy, focusing instead on limiting his powers rather than removing him outright.

Infantino is seeking a fourth presidential term when the vote takes place in Rabat on 18 March 2027. A FIFA spokesperson confirmed his candidacy remains unchanged: “The Fifa president announced in April that he will stand for re-election in 2027. Of course, nothing has changed. Mr Infantino will be standing for re-election.”

The statement followed an episode at the Women’s Under-20 World Cup in Poland, where Infantino declined to answer journalists’ questions about his political future.