'New York Post': 'FIFA' cancels plan to invest World Cup and other tournament rights amid global objections

The New York Post reported, citing four informed sources, that FIFA halted its plan to attract private-sector investors to a new company it intended to establish for managing its commercial activities and tournaments, following growing global opposition and a European threat of a boycott.

According to the newspaper, FIFA planned to raise up to $4.2 billion by selling a stake of nearly 20% in the new company, which was valued at around $20 billion. No official confirmation has been issued by FIFA yet, while Reuters stated it could not independently verify the report.

The project involved creating a company named “FIFA Forward Enterprises,” which would manage broadcasting rights, sponsorship, ticket sales, and licensing, along with operations related to the World Cup and other FIFA tournaments.

The plan faced widespread rejection from UEFA, whose member associations threatened to boycott FIFA tournaments. It was also opposed by the Asian Football Confederation and CONCACAF, amid criticism over the lack of consultation and transparency.