FIFA's controversial proposal to open the commercial rights of the FIFA World Cup to private investors has sparked a wave of opposition across world football, with governing bodies, leagues, federations and European Union officials warning the plan could fundamentally alter the game's future.
The backlash intensified Wednesday after FIFA confirmed plans to establish a new commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), valued at approximately $20 billion, to oversee the commercial rights of the World Cup and other FIFA competitions.
While FIFA would retain majority control, it aims to sell minority stakes of up to 20% to long-term investors and raise about $4.2 billion.
Critics argue the proposal prioritizes financial interests over football's integrity and raises serious concerns about governance, transparency and conflicts of interest.
Governance risks
