FIFA's Plan to Sell World Cup Commercial Rights Draws Widespread Criticism from UEFA and Other Confederations

FIFA has announced a controversial plan to create a $20 billion subsidiary, "FIFA Forward Enterprise," to manage its commercial and event operations, including the World Cup, and offer up to 20% stakes to external investors. This move has been met with strong backlash from UEFA, CONCACAF, and the AFC, who accuse FIFA of attempting to overly commercialize the sport and operating without transparency. UEFA has stated the World Cup is "not FIFA's to sell" and plans an emergency meeting. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has set a September 19 deadline for member associations to accept a one-off $20 million offer as part of the proposal.