FIFA pulls private‑investment plan and admits errors amid Super League controversy

FIFA’s leadership issued an apology after procedural and communication mistakes surrounding the abandoned “FIFA Forward Enterprise” project, which aimed to sell a 20 % stake in World Cup commercial rights to private investors and was valued at about $4.2 billion. The plan was withdrawn following strong opposition from confederations, clubs and UEFA, and the FIFA Council reaffirmed full support for President Gianni Infantino at an emergency meeting in Rabat, Morocco. An internal review will be presented at the next council session.

Leaked documents reported by The Guardian reveal that Infantino had been involved in discussions to rebrand the failed European Super League as a “FIFA Super League”, including a draft term‑sheet for a joint‑venture and a “golden share” giving FIFA special governance rights. The papers show plans for a 12‑year partnership, an expanded annual club world competition linked to the Super League, and attempts to reduce international match windows. The revelations have sparked worldwide media criticism and added pressure on Infantino, whose senior adviser Carlos Cordeiro resigned.

The episode highlights ongoing governance challenges within world football and the backlash against attempts to commercialise the sport’s premier tournaments.