FIFA issued an extensive statement on August 5 following an extraordinary meeting in Rabat after facing backlash over a plan to sell World Cup shares. Shortly after the 2026 World Cup, the organization announced a plan to create a special company named FIFA Forward Enterprise to sell stakes in the tournament to private investors.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino was the face of the proposal, but encountered opposition both outside and inside the organization. Opposition inside FIFA included Arsene Wenger, the FIFA director of global football development, and Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom.
FIFA stated that its authorities held a constructive and positive meeting in Rabat, Morocco. The statement indicated that Infantino does not face the prospect of losing his position as president.
The present FIFA secretary general and board members confirmed their full support for Infantino as the sole representative elected by FIFA's 211 member associations. Infantino also expressed full support for Grafstrom and the administration, praising their work in realizing his vision.
Leadership Support and Communication Errors
The statement acknowledged that communication and processes between Infantino, Grafstrom, and the board can and should be improved for efficiency. FIFA cited the recent World Cup as an example of effective past cooperation between the leadership branches.
Regarding the FIFA Forward Enterprise project, FIFA admitted to errors in how the process was handled. The organization agreed that it did not intend to exclude the FIFA Council or member federations, and acknowledged mistakes made after details leaked to the media.
FIFA sent a letter to the FIFA Council and all 211 member federations to apologize for the errors and promise they will not happen again. An analysis will be conducted, with a report presented to the FIFA Council at its next scheduled meeting.
Withdrawal of Project and Protection of Reputation
FIFA confirmed it is withdrawing from the FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative, which would have required approval from the council and member federations. Following the withdrawal, FIFA stated it will take all necessary steps to protect its name and reputation.
The organization announced it will no longer tolerate attacks on its integrity, good governance principles, or proper procedures. FIFA maintained that while errors occurred, all actions taken were fully compliant with organization regulations.
FIFA pledged to work with stakeholders to support football development through the FIFA Forward program for member associations, confederations, and regional bodies. Infantino has already announced he will run for re-election at the 77th FIFA Congress in Rabat next March.
