FIFA Sets September Deadline for Members to Back Investment Plan Offering Up to $40 Million

Posted : 30 July 2026

FIFA has informed its 211 member associations that they must decide by September 19 whether to support its proposed commercial restructuring, with those opting in eligible to receive funding worth up to $40 million each under the governing body's new investment plan. The proposal has sparked widespread debate across global football.

The governing body recently unveiled plans to establish a commercial subsidiary that would oversee the management of revenue-generating competitions, including the FIFA World Cup. As part of the proposal, FIFA intends to sell a minority stake in the new entity to outside investors while retaining majority control. The initiative is designed to generate significant new funding for football development worldwide.

According to reports, FIFA president Gianni Infantino told national associations they could access a share of a $10 billion funding package from January 2027 if they approve the proposal before the deadline. Associations choosing not to participate would instead remain under FIFA's previously announced Forward Programme expansion, valued at $2.7 billion.

Infantino stressed that the decision rests with each member association, presenting the proposal as an opportunity to significantly increase financial support over the next funding cycle. Under the plan, federations that opt in could receive as much as $40 million during the 2027-2030 period.

The proposal has, however, drawn fierce criticism from several football authorities. UEFA has condemned the initiative, arguing that football's premier competitions should not be treated as commercial assets for private investment. European officials have also criticized FIFA for imposing a strict deadline, claiming it places undue pressure on member associations to make a far-reaching decision.

UEFA said discussions with stakeholders across the football community indicate growing resistance to the proposal, insisting that the sport's future should prioritize national associations, clubs, leagues, players and supporters rather than outside investors. The plan has also faced opposition from other football bodies and political leaders, who have questioned both its transparency and long-term impact on the governance of the game.

FIFA Sets September Deadline for Members to Back Investment Plan Offering Up to $40 Million

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