FIFA is moving forward with plans to sell a 20% stake in the commercial rights to the World Cup to private investors, a deal valued at more than $4 billion.
The transaction would mark a significant shift in how the world’s most watched sporting event is financed and managed, opening the door for outside capital to influence the tournament’s commercial direction.
FIFA’s strategy aims to raise capital for future tournaments and infrastructure projects, with the organization targeting a total valuation of approximately $20 billion for the newly formed commercial entity.
The proposal has triggered a sharp reaction from UEFA, which is considering a boycott of the initiative.
The European confederation has previously rejected similar moves by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, viewing the introduction of private equity into the World Cup’s revenue stream as a threat to the integrity and governance of the sport.
UEFA’s potential boycott adds a layer of uncertainty to the deal, as European clubs and national teams are central to the tournament’s success.
FIFA’s strategy aims to raise capital for future tournaments and infrastructure projects, with the organization targeting a total valuation of approximately $20 billion for the newly formed commercial entity.