FIFA COO criticizes Infantino's plan to sell competition stakes

FIFA’s chief operating officer, [Name], publicly denounced President Gianni Infantino’s proposal to sell stakes in major competitions to private investors. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the COO argued that the move would undermine the integrity and global reach of the sport, citing concerns over potential conflicts of interest and the dilution of FIFA’s governance structure.

The proposal, unveiled at a recent executive meeting, aims to raise capital by allowing external entities to acquire shares in flagship tournaments such as the World Cup and continental championships. Critics, including the COO, warn that such a shift could prioritize commercial gains over sporting values, potentially compromising fair play and equal opportunities for member associations. The debate follows a broader scrutiny of FIFA’s financial practices and governance reforms initiated after the 2022 corruption investigations.

FIFA’s leadership has not yet responded to the criticism. If the plan proceeds, it would mark a significant change in how the organization finances its operations, prompting questions about regulatory oversight and the long‑term impact on football’s global ecosystem.