Gianni Infantino calls World Cup stake plan ‘an opportunity, not an obligation’

Fifa president maintained that strengthening the commercial side of the game is the ‘natural next step in this evolution’

FILE PHOTO: Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup 2026 - FIFA World Cup 2026 Draw - John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington, D.C., U.S. - December 5, 2025 FIFA President Gianni Infantino arrives on the red carpet ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Draw REUTERS/Brian Snyder/File Photo 30 Jul 2026 03:31AM Jul

A proposal to privatize FIFA's commercial operations is the latest episode to draw criticism from Brussels officials and lawmakers.

Controversial plans to sell stakes in the FIFA World Cup to private investors have sparked a furious response from football authorities and politicians. UEFA, the body that governs European football, took the unprecedented step of releasing a statement condemning FIFA’s plan, which involves creating a new entity that w

The proposal has been widely criticized, with European soccer's governing body UEFA saying it "crosses a line."

Gianni Infantino stands to make millions if he's able to complete a deal.

World Cup for sale: Gianni Infantino’s plan to sell stakes in tournament  The Times