FIFA has announced plans to establish a new commercial subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), valued at $20 billion, in a move aimed at expanding football’s commercial growth while continuing to invest in the sport worldwide. The proposal will be presented to FIFA’s 211 Member Associations and the FIFA Council for approval.
According to FIFA, FFE will consolidate the organization’s commercial and event-related operations, while FIFA will retain full control over football governance, competitions, regulations, and the international match calendar. The governing body also plans to invite external investors to purchase minority, non-controlling stakes, raising up to $4.2 billion, with all net proceeds set to be reinvested into global football development.
Key Highlights
- FIFA plans to launch FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), valued at $20 billion.
- Up to $4.2 billion could be raised through minority investments.
- FIFA will maintain full authority over football governance and competitions.
- Funds generated will be reinvested into football development worldwide.
Infantino Says Plan Will Benefit Global Football
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the initiative as an opportunity to ensure that football’s commercial success benefits every part of the game. He said the goal is to provide all member associations with fair access to funding and promote the “democratisation of football worldwide.”
UEFA Criticises the Proposal
The proposal has received strong criticism from UEFA, which argued that football’s governance should never become a commercial asset. UEFA expressed concerns over the lack of transparency regarding potential investors and warned that football’s future should not be influenced by financial interests.
UEFA’s Main Concerns
- Football governance should not be treated as a commercial asset.
- Lack of transparency over who would financially benefit.
- Concerns about the long-term impact on the sport’s governance.
External Investors Expected
FIFA is reportedly working with JPMorgan to attract investors for up to a 20% stake in the new entity. Reports also suggest that venture capital firm Thrive Capital’s permanent investment vehicle, Thrive Eternal, is expected to be a lead investor. Former Liberty Media CEO Greg Maffei has reportedly been involved as a commercial adviser during the creation of the new enterprise.
The proposal marks one of FIFA’s most ambitious commercial initiatives in recent years and could significantly reshape how the organization funds football development across the globe, pending approval from its member associations.