FIFA Transparency has come under fresh scrutiny after world football’s governing body abandoned plans to sell a stake in the commercial rights of the FIFA World Cup.
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FIFA had planned to raise up to $4.2 billion by selling about a 20% stake in a new company that would manage FIFA events, including the World Cup.
However, regional confederations strongly opposed the proposal. They said FIFA introduced the plan without consulting key stakeholders.
As criticism grew, FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed the organisation had withdrawn the proposal. He said FIFA made the decision after reviewing the concerns raised by football bodies.
The decision has renewed calls for greater transparency and accountability. Football officials said FIFA should consult confederations, member associations and other stakeholders before making major commercial decisions.
Moreover, the controversy has sparked fresh debate about Infantino’s leadership. It has also raised questions about his bid for another term as FIFA president.
Asian Football Confederation President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa welcomed FIFA’s decision. He said every proposal with global consequences should go through a transparent and meaningful consultation process.
Meanwhile, Football Australia Chairman Anter Isaac backed innovation but urged FIFA to protect integrity, transparency, good governance and due process.
Sports analysts believe the episode could weaken Infantino’s political standing ahead of the 2027 FIFA presidential election. They say the backlash exposed growing frustration among some member associations over FIFA’s decision-making process.
Although Infantino has led FIFA since 2016, the latest controversy has intensified debate about governance and accountability within world football.
