FIFA is under fire for a proposal to package the commercial rights of the World Cup into a new company valued at US$20 billion (£15 billion). The plan, which would involve selling approximately 20% of the entity to private investors, covers revenue streams from broadcasting, sponsorship, licensing, and ticketing.
The initiative has drawn sharp condemnation from UEFA, which accused FIFA of acting with “zero transparency” and warned that the governing body is overstepping its authority. “None of us are the owners of football. It is not Fifa’s to sell,” UEFA stated. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham echoed these sentiments, asserting that the sport belongs to its fans.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the political associations surrounding the proposal. Reports have linked Thrive Capital, led by Joshua Kushner—the brother of Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner—to the plan. This follows public scrutiny of FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s relationship with the former US president, which has led to Infantino being called to testify before the US Congress.
Critics argue that the World Cup represents “living heritage” created by generations of supporters rather than a product owned by FIFA. There are fears that prioritizing private investment could commodify the tournament, potentially alienating fans and eroding the cultural traditions that underpin the event's value. Observers have drawn parallels to the failed 2021 European Super League project, noting that fan resistance previously successfully challenged attempts to reshape football institutions for commercial gain.
Source: The Conversation
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