American, Asian confederations blindsided by FIFA’s World Cup plan

Published 29 July 2026 · sports

FIFA’s bombshell proposal to sell ⁠stakes in a $20bn commercial subsidiary has drawn strong criticism from football’s regional confederations, which said they were blindsided by

FIFA’s bombshell proposal to sell ⁠stakes in a $20bn commercial subsidiary has drawn strong criticism from football’s regional confederations, which said they were blindsided by the world governing body’s plan to bring private investors into the game. The Confederations of North, Central America and the Caribbean (CONCACAF) and Asia (AFC) delivered stinging rebukes on Wednesday, saying they ⁠learned of FIFA’s equity sale proposal through media reports rather than official channels. FIFA said on Tuesday that it plans to create a $20bn subsidiary to run the World Cup and its other events, offering stakes of up to 20% in it to external investors. Under the plan, FIFA would establish its Forward Enterprise to oversee commercial and event operations. FIFA, which this ⁠year held a 48-team World Cup across the US, Canada and Mexico that was the biggest in the tournament’s history, would retain control of the enterprise but offer minority stakes to private investors to raise up to $4.2bn. CONCACAF cite ‘lack of due process’ by FIFA “CONCACAF was only made aware of this matter through media reports and, subsequently, via a media release. We are deeply concerned by the lack of due process,” it said in a statement.

“We share the disappointment of many within our region and the game that this level of detail has been designed and shared publicly before any discussion with the relevant governance bodies and stakeholders has taken place. “As leaders within football, we are the custodians of the game. Collectively, FIFA, the confederations and every member association have a responsibility to always act in the best interests of the sport. “Every decision we make must be guided by good governance, robust processes and long-term stewardship.” The AFC said it recognised the importance of “exploring innovative approaches” but was disappointed that such a significant proposal was announced before the confederation had the opportunity to examine the plan. “Such initiatives should be founded upon the principles of good governance, transparency and meaningful consultation,” it said. “Decisions that may reshape the commercial and financial future of the game require comprehensive prior engagement with confederations, member associations and other relevant stakeholders before any proposal is made to the appropriate decision-making body(ies),” the AFC added. “The AFC firmly believes that all stakeholders should be provided with sufficient ⁠information and adequate time to assess the proposal in full, including its governance, legal, commercial and strategic implications.” While the AFC has 47 ⁠member associations, CONCACAF has 41.