FIFA Scraps Controversial Plan to Sell Stakes in the World Cup After Backlash
By System Administrator · Sat Aug 01 2026
Football's governing body has abandoned a proposal to sell equity stakes in its major competitions following widespread opposition.
FIFA has dropped a controversial plan championed by president Gianni Infantino that would have seen the organization sell off stakes in major competitions, including the World Cup. The proposal faced fierce opposition from federations, fans and football stakeholders who argued it risked compromising the integrity and governance of the sport's showcase events. The decision to abandon the plan comes amid heightened global attention on football following the 2026 World Cup, a tournament that has generated considerable excitement in Ghana following the Black Stars' historic run. FIFA has not detailed alternative funding strategies but says it remains committed to strengthening the financial sustainability of its competitions.