Fifa president Gianni Infantino's plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors, including Joshua Kushner, poses a grave threat to football's integrity, argues a Guardian editorial. The proposed $20bn company, Fifa Forward Enterprise, would commercialise all Fifa rights and operational delivery.
Infantino's Instagram rant and denial of criticism
Infantino recently published a 15-page Instagram post dismissing criticism of the World Cup as "hate and false rumours," including concerns over refereeing, ticket prices, and hydration breaks. He presents his mission as spreading "joy and happiness," but critics see a relentless pursuit of money.
Plans for private investment in World Cup
Fifa confirmed it seeks to sell stakes in tournaments to investors like Kushner, brother of Jared Kushner. The new entity would manage commercial rights and operational delivery, with a $30m windfall for national associations. This could accelerate hyper-monetisation, leading to more frequent and larger tournaments, distorting the calendar and harming domestic leagues.
Comparison to European Super League and governance concerns
The plan revives fears from the failed European Super League, opposed by fans in 2021. Uefa and Concacaf have voiced opposition, indicating a crossroads for football governance. Infantino's self-promotion and courting of Donald Trump have long been criticised, but placing the World Cup at risk from private capital is a more serious offence.
Jules Rimet's vision versus Infantino's reality
World Cup creator Jules Rimet envisioned fostering unity and solidarity. Infantino pays lip service to these ideals but drags football away from its roots, following the money. The editorial urges resistance in the wider interests of the game.
