FIFA President Gianni Infantino has proposed a $20 billion initiative to create a company that would manage the World Cup, backed by private investors including the Kushner family, but the plan has drawn significant criticism from UEFA.

Context

Infantino's proposal includes a one-off offer of $20 million to each of FIFA's 211 member federations, with a deadline for acceptance set for September 19.S1

Key points

• The proposal aims to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.S1

• Infantino describes the initiative as a "singular and unique funding opportunity."S1

• The investment plan has been met with immediate backlash from UEFA, the governing body for European soccer.S2

• UEFA criticized the plan, stating that "it is not FIFA’s to sell" and emphasized collective ownership of football.S2

• The initiative is backed by an investment firm associated with Jared Kushner's family.S1

• Infantino's letter outlines the financial benefits for member federations if they accept the offer.S1

• The proposal has sparked a debate about the commercialization of football and its governance.S2

• Critics argue that the plan prioritizes profit over the sport's integrity and community values.S2

Why it matters

• The outcome of this proposal could reshape the financial landscape of international football.S1

• The backlash from UEFA highlights divisions within the global football community regarding governance and commercialization.S2

• This initiative may set a precedent for future private investments in sports governance.S1

What to watch

• Monitor the response from FIFA member federations as the September 19 deadline approaches.S1

• Watch for UEFA's next steps in opposing the proposal and its potential impact on European competitions.S2

• Keep an eye on public and media reactions to the commercialization of the World Cup.S2