Infantino: FIFA's commercial project is an opportunity, not an obligation

The proposal to sell stakes in FIFA’s flagship competitions has sparked astonishment and outrage worldwide since its disclosure on Tuesday, but Infantino defended the idea, arguing that only a tiny fraction of football’s commercial value reaches those who need it most within the game.

In a video message released on Wednesday evening, Infantino said, “FIFA Forward Enterprise is in fact a proposal and an offer. It is part of a democratic process, namely a consultation process, and above all it represents an opportunity, not an obligation.” He added, “It is a golden opportunity to accelerate the development of football worldwide, but again, it is merely an offer, not a mandate.”

He emphasized that the project aims to unlock “untapped commercial value,” clarifying that its implementation remains subject to the approval of FIFA’s 211 member national associations, as well as to the endorsement of the International Football Association Board.

He said, “Harnessing this value requires additional expertise and a different vision, separate from the management and development of the sport. It would simply involve marketing and organizing all competitions owned by FIFA, along with sponsorship, broadcasting, licensing rights, and new projects, for the benefit of the 211 member associations.”

He stressed that the essence of the game would not change and that fans would be the biggest beneficiaries, adding, “Supporters around the world will benefit immeasurably from these potential game-changing opportunities, as they will transform football in their countries.”