Asia’s soccer body has joined UEFA and CONCACAF in opposing FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s plan to allow private investors to buy stakes in the World Cup. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) criticized FIFA’s management style and called for an urgent review of its governance. Infantino proposed creating a $20 billion subsidiary for FIFA’s commercial ventures, with 20% owned by private investors, including a firm linked to Jared Kushner’s brother. The AFC argued that the plan lacks the necessary consensus and unity. FIFA, facing widespread opposition, blamed media reports for disrupting its consultation process. The controversy comes as a European boycott threatens upcoming FIFA events, including the Women’s Under-20 World Cup in Poland.
QUESTION: How might the involvement of private investors in major sports events like the World Cup impact the future of international soccer?
Asian soccer body joins opposition to FIFA and Infantino’s World Cup private equity plan
