ZURICH – FIFA is considering creating a separate company to manage the Men's World Cup, Women's World Cup and Club World Cup, according to The Times. The proposed entity, known as FIFA Forward Enterprise, would remain majority-owned by FIFA while selling a 20% to 30% minority stake to private investors. The new company is reportedly valued at around US$20 billion. Another 20% stake could be distributed among FIFA's 211 member associations, allowing them to keep or sell their shares.
FIFA acknowledged that the project is being explored but stressed that no final decision has been made and that it would retain control of any subsidiary. The proposal has triggered strong criticism from UEFA and other football leaders, who argue that the governance of the sport should not be commercialised. Some European football bodies are even discussing the possibility of boycotting future World Cups if the plan moves forward.