Concacaf and its 41 member associations have rejected FIFA’s proposal to open commercial interests in the FIFA World Cup to private investors, citing concerns over governance, transparency, and the decision-making process behind the initiative.
Following a high-level meeting, the North, Central American, and Caribbean football confederation said member associations questioned the proposal’s limited consultation period and the absence of review by FIFA’s established governance bodies. Officials argued that major structural changes affecting world football should be subject to thorough evaluation and follow FIFA’s existing regulatory procedures.
The proposal is linked to the creation of FIFA Forward Enterprise, an initiative introduced by FIFA President Gianni Infantino to attract private investment aimed at expanding football development programs worldwide. However, Concacaf representatives questioned the need for external funding, pointing to FIFA’s strong financial position following the organization’s most commercially successful World Cup.
Rather than selling interests in its flagship tournaments, Concacaf urged FIFA to use its existing financial reserves to increase investment in grassroots football, infrastructure, youth development, and regional programs. The confederation emphasized that the long-term future of football should remain under the control of the global football community rather than outside investors.
The move follows similar opposition from UEFA, whose member associations have also raised concerns about private investment in FIFA competitions. Some European football leaders have warned they could consider further action if the proposal moves forward without broader consultation.
Despite the criticism, Infantino has defended the initiative, arguing that strategic investment could unlock new commercial opportunities and generate additional funding to support football development across all regions of the world.
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