FIFA has defended its controversial proposal to introduce private investment into the FIFA World Cup, insisting that “nobody is selling football” despite growing opposition from UEFA and other continental football bodies.
In a statement released on Friday, the world football governing body said it would continue consultations on its proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a commercial subsidiary expected to oversee the World Cup and other major FIFA competitions.
The statement comes after UEFA’s 55 member associations reportedly voted to boycott FIFA competitions if the governing body proceeds with plans to sell a minority stake in its commercial operations to private investors.
Responding to the criticism, FIFA said it had taken note of the concerns raised by the various football confederations.
“We have heard the feedback provided by the respective confederations. We respect the feedback and concern aired in public and reaffirm our commitment to an open and democratic consultation,” FIFA said.
The organisation maintained that no final decision has been made and stressed that all 211 FIFA member associations would have the opportunity to review the proposal before any action is taken.
Addressing claims that the proposal amounts to the sale of football, FIFA firmly rejected the suggestion.
“Nobody is selling football. This is not something FIFA would ever entertain,” the statement added.
According to FIFA, the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) is intended to help member associations benefit from football’s growing commercial value without compromising the governance or integrity of the sport.
The governing body also emphasised that the initiative would only move forward if it receives the support of the majority of its member associations.
Meanwhile, opposition to the proposal continues to grow, with CONCACAF rejecting the plan and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) criticising FIFA over what it described as inadequate consultation with continental football bodies.
The proposed initiative is expected to involve American investment firm Thrive Eternal, which is reportedly leading a consortium seeking a minority stake in FIFA’s new commercial venture.
Despite the backlash, FIFA insists the consultation process remains ongoing and says the initiative could unlock unprecedented funding opportunities for football development across its member associations.
Source: AFP
