A radical new proposal could see FIFA sell off stakes in its top tournaments to private investors in a deal worth billions.
Jointly hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, the 104-match tournament shattered attendance records and broke viewership records worldwide.
The expanded 48-team 2026 World Cup across North America proved a massive success, delivering packed stadiums and electric atmospheres, but it wasn’t without its drama.
Gianni Infantino's letter to the Argentine FA has gone viral – give us your response 👇
🚨 Reminder, FIFA are set to investigate what happened after the final
However, it was the relationship between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and U.S. President Donald Trump that caught the eye during the 2026 World Cup.
The pair hosted a reception at Trump Tower and presented the trophy together following the final. However, their tight-knit bond sparked controversy, drawing scrutiny over political influence after incidents involving Folarin Balogun’s red card and a VAR call in favour of Argentina.
Gianni Infantino wants to sell stakes in the World Cup
FIFA President Gianni Infantino is exploring a plan to sell private ownership stakes in a new commercial company that would control FIFA’s top men’s and women’s competitions, including the World Cup and Club World Cup, according to The Times.
Here are the key details of the proposed plan:
FIFA would keep majority control, private investors would purchase 20% to 30% for billions of dollars, and FIFA’s 211 member nations would share the remaining 20%.
Each member association would receive a stake worth around $20 million (£15 million), which they could hold or sell for immediate cash—a move designed to win their support for the proposal.
Potential backers include investment bank JP Morgan and Joshua Kushner, with figures tied to Donald Trump’s administration consulted on the project.
Outside investment could increase pressure to make World Cups bigger—including potential expansion to 64 teams—or host them more frequently.
Infantino could earn tens of millions from the deal and is lined up to become the company’s chief commissioner after his FIFA presidency concludes in 2031.
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