The Hostile Takeover

FIFA is facing significant opposition to plans for a new commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), that would consolidate commercial and event operations connected with the World Cup and other FIFA competitions. The proposed entity has been valued at around $20 billion, with external investors potentially acquiring a stake of up to 20%.

UEFA and its 55 national associations have unanimously rejected the proposal, arguing that ownership interests in the World Cup and other FIFA competitions should not be transferred to private investors. CONCACAF has also raised concerns about the proposal and the decision-making process, while the Asian Football Confederation has joined UEFA and CONCACAF in expressing serious reservations.

FIFA says it would retain control of FFE as well as exclusive authority over football governance, competitions and sporting decisions. The organization argues that the new structure could substantially increase development funding for its 211 member associations. FIFA has said it will continue its consultation process despite the opposition.