Fifa scraps controversial World Cup investment plan
Fifa president Gianni Infantino has officially canceled a controversial proposal to sell stakes in major football tournaments to private investors. The decision follows significant backlash and internal division regarding the plan, which had promised financial incentives to member associations.
Why it matters
The reversal marks a significant shift in Fifa's financial strategy and highlights the internal political pressure facing its leadership regarding the commercialization of global sports.
By Jack Skelton , BBC Sport senior journalist and Simon Stone , Chief football news reporter Published 1 August 2026 Fifa president Gianni Infantino says he has scrapped the controversial plan to sell off stakes in the governing body's major competitions, following widespread opposition.
Infantino said it had become clear the project had "created divisions" that are "no longer in the interest" of its original objective.
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