Infantino's plans caused a revolt at FIFA, the CEO is ready to resign
Kyiv • UNN
FIFA President Gianni Infantino faced criticism over plans to involve private investors in tournaments. CEO Kevin Lamour stated his readiness to leave his post due to the project of creating a commercial subsidiary.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has faced a wave of criticism over plans to involve private investors in organizing football tournaments. Amid protests, his senior advisor has already resigned, and FIFA CEO Kevin Lamour stated he is ready to leave his post, reports BBC, writes UNN.
Details
The most outrage was caused by the proposal to create a commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which would be responsible for organizing FIFA's main tournaments. The plan involves selling minority stakes to external investors.
FIFA CEO Kevin Lamour called the initiative a "one-man project" and said it is time for football leaders to ask themselves the right questions.
If that means I lose my job, then so be it. I will understand that decision and respect it. At least tonight I will sleep peacefully
Football confederations opposed the plan
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) joined the criticism, stating that Infantino's proposal would not ensure the necessary consensus and could undermine the unity of world football.
UEFA threatens FIFA with boycott over idea involving private investors30.07.26, 19:22 • 3028 views
Following this, Infantino's senior advisor Carlos Cordeiro resigned, calling the involvement of private investors a "bad deal." UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham also criticized the FIFA president, stating that he is "not the person" who should lead the organization.
According to the BBC, UEFA and CONCACAF had already opposed the plan earlier. If their position is supported by all national federations, Infantino's initiative is unlikely to secure the necessary majority of votes for approval.