FIFA Chief Infantino Apologizes for Failed World Cup Sale Plan

ZURICH, Switzerland — FIFA President Gianni Infantino offered an apology regarding a failed initiative to sell private investment stakes in the World Cup, yet senior officials stated he provided no "satisfactory answers" during a closed-door council meeting on Thursday. The gathering addressed the controversial proposal by his organization, FIFA Forward Enterprise, which aimed to open major tournaments to private sector investors.

Council Members Criticize Lack of Transparency

Bernd Neuendorf, president of the German Football Association and a member of the FIFA Council, expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome of the discussion. "We asked a large number of critical questions, but from my point of view, there were no satisfactory answers," Neuendorf said following the session at FIFA’s headquarters in Zurich. The proposal had been a primary item on the agenda, drawing scrutiny after its announcement in late July.

Debbie Hewitt, chair of the English FA and FIFA Vice-President, confirmed that members had the opportunity to voice their concerns extensively. She noted that Infantino began the proceedings by apologizing for what occurred, describing his tone as one of regret. "I think it is fair to say that Gianni apologized at the beginning for what happened... and then the discussion was completely open about our feelings regarding what took place," Hewitt told reporters.

Investment Proposal Withdrawn After Backlash

The plan to introduce private investors into FIFA’s flagship competitions was ultimately abandoned due to widespread opposition. This resistance included a rebellion led by UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation, and CONCACAF. Despite the withdrawal, tensions remain high within the governing body, where Infantino has served as president since 2016.

Hewitt highlighted specific frustrations regarding the lack of documentation. "It is disappointing that we did not get answers. We received no answers on any of the things we specifically requested, such as obtaining the documents for the plan, so we asked why," she explained. The proposal had not been presented to the FIFA Council prior to its public declaration in July.

Political Ties and Election Implications

Several major European national associations have withdrawn support for Infantino’s upcoming re-election bid, citing the investment controversy alongside other issues. These include his relationship with US President Donald Trump. Notably, Infantino created the "FIFA Peace Award" and presented it to Trump during the World Cup draw last December. He also suspended the ban on American striker Folarin Balogun following a red card incident at the World Cup, a decision made after Trump directly contacted him.

Infantino intends to run for a new term in March next year, although no prominent rival has declared an intention to challenge him. Hewitt stated that her perspective remained unchanged despite the meeting. "From my point of view, nothing has changed. I do not have any new information that makes me feel differently than when I entered the meeting, except that we have a FIFA president who feels regret about what happened, and secondly, he again promised that we will receive the information we requested."

Development Fund and Future Elections

The council meeting was also expected to address a proposed $6.35 billion development fund for the next four years. This initiative aims to distribute money to FIFA’s 211 member associations and continental bodies. Funding would derive partly from the federation's financial reserves, leveraging the anticipated commercial success of the 2026 World Cup. Under this plan, each of the 211 national associations could receive $25 million.

Observers suggest Infantino may hope this development package strengthens his position ahead of the election. The deadline for submitting candidacies is set for November 18.