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NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsJuly 30, 2026United States

Soccer Federations Oppose FIFA's World Cup Investment Plan

Major soccer governing bodies in Europe and North America have rejected a FIFA proposal to sell a 20% stake in its commercial operations to private equity investors. The plan, backed by a firm linked to Joshua Kushner, includes a $20 million offer to each of FIFA's 211 member associations if accepted by mid-September.

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Why It Matters

The potential boycott of FIFA competitions by European and North American soccer bodies threatens the participation of major national teams in upcoming tournaments, including the Women's Under-20 World Cup.

Key Facts

  • FIFA President Gianni Infantino proposed selling a 20% stake in FIFA's commercial operations to private equity investors.
  • The proposed commercial spin-off is valued at $20 billion.
  • FIFA offered a $20 million payment to each of its 211 member associations, contingent on acceptance by mid-September.
  • UEFA's 55 member federations agreed to boycott all FIFA competitions in protest of the plan.
  • Concacaf's 41 member associations formally rejected the proposal.
  • Concacaf cited a lack of due process, an artificially short deadline, and a lack of review by FIFA governance bodies as reasons for rejection.
  • The investment firm involved is a New York firm created by Joshua Kushner.
  • The Women's Under-20 World Cup in Poland, starting September 5, is the next scheduled FIFA competition.

Who's Mentioned

organizationU.S. Soccer“Member of Concacaf that reiterated its opposition.”organizationUEFA“European soccer governing body opposing the plan.”personGianni Infantino“FIFA President who proposed the private equity investment plan.”personJoshua Kushner“Investor linked to the New York firm involved in the proposal.”organizationConcacaf“North American soccer governing body that rejected the plan.”