FIFA Drops World Cup Commercial Rights Stake Sale Plan

FIFA has abandoned its private‑equity plan to sell a stake in World Cup commercial rights after a wave of opposition from confederations, national associations, and even inside FIFA itself.

FIFA proposed creating a new subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), to take over most of FIFA’s revenue‑generating operations: broadcast rights, sponsorships, licensing and ticket sales for tournaments including the World Cup.

About 20% of FFE would be sold to private investors, with Joshua Kushner’s Thrive Capital named as the lead partner and JPMorgan as adviser. (EBU/CHFIFA/AVN)