UEFA have strongly opposed FIFA’s proposal to invite private investment into its commercial operations, warning that the plan could undermine the governance of world football.
The governing body described the proposal as a step too far after FIFA announced plans to create a new commercial subsidiary to attract minority investors.
UEFA warns plan ‘crosses a line’
FIFA said it intends to establish a new entity, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), to oversee its commercial and event operations while seeking minority, non-controlling investment from third parties.
The world governing body believes the initiative could expand football development funding to more than $10 billion.
However, UEFA issued a strongly worded response, arguing that football’s governance should not be opened to private investors.
“This crosses a line that football’s governing institutions should never cross.”
The European governing body also questioned the transparency of the proposal.
“The soul and governance of football are not assets to trade, especially with zero transparency as to who gains financially. None of us are the owners of football. It is not FIFA’s to sell.”
FIFA defends proposal
FIFA said it would retain full control of football governance, competitions, the international match calendar and all regulatory decisions even if the investment plan is approved.
The organisation added that each member association could receive up to $20 million in one-off capital to support football development projects.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended the proposal, saying the aim is to ensure football’s financial success benefits every nation.
“Our job is to make sure the rest of football grows with it: FIFA exists to support sustainable, inclusive development in every corner of the world.”
The proposal is expected to be discussed at the next FIFA Council meeting before potentially being presented to all 211 member associations for a vote at the FIFA Congress in Morocco next March.
