FIFA has announced plans to establish a new commercial subsidiary valued at around $20 billion as it seeks to expand football’s global financial potential. The world football governing body said the proposed entity, named FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), will combine its commercial activities and event operations under one subsidiary. FIFA plans to maintain complete control over football governance, competitions, match schedules and regulatory decisions. The organisation said the new structure will not affect its authority over sporting matters.
FIFA Seeks External Investment for New Venture
Under the proposal, FIFA will allow external investors to purchase minority and non-controlling stakes in FFE. The move could help the organisation raise up to $4.2 billion.
FIFA said all financial benefits generated through the subsidiary will return to football development projects around the world.
“Football is the world’s most popular sport and an extraordinary engine of human and social development,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino said.
He added that football’s commercial success should support the growth of the entire sport and help create opportunities in different regions.
Infantino said FIFA’s goal is to promote sustainable and inclusive development across global football.
Uefa Raises Concerns Over FIFA Proposal
The proposal has faced strong opposition from UEFA, European football’s governing body.
UEFA criticised the plan and warned that football’s governance should not become a commercial asset. The organisation also questioned the transparency of the investment structure.
“This crosses a line that football’s governing institutions should never cross,” UEFA said in a statement.
UEFA argued that football belongs to all stakeholders, including clubs, players, supporters and national associations. It said decisions involving the sport’s future require greater openness.
However, Infantino defended the plan and said every FIFA member association should have access to financial opportunities.
“This is about the democratisation of football worldwide,” he said.
Investors Expected to Support FIFA Enterprise
FIFA is working with financial advisers to attract investors for the new commercial platform. Sources said investment firm JPMorgan is assisting efforts to raise funds. Reports suggest external investors could acquire up to a 20 percent stake in FFE. Former Liberty Media CEO Greg Maffei has reportedly contributed as a commercial adviser.
Thrive Eternal, an investment strategy launched by Thrive Capital, is expected to become a major investor. The platform focuses on long-term investments in major franchises and cultural organisations. The proposal will now be presented to FIFA’s 211 member associations and the FIFA Council. The council will hold final authority over whether the plan moves forward.
