FIFA targets $4.2B investment from private backers via new subsidiary

FIFA is accelerating a major commercial project and hopes to secure $4.2 billion from private investors by October. The plan involves creating a subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which has been valued at $20 billion. The governing body intends to sell a 20% stake in the new entity to raise the required funding. Confidential documents seen by journalists indicate the funds are expected to be raised within the next 100 days. FIFA president Gianni Infantino had previously told national associations that consultations on the project were only just beginning. FIFA has also asked all 211 member associations to back the initiative. One of the selling points is the possibility of using $86 million to finance salary increases and develop human resources policies. According to Sky Sports News, associations must decide on their position by September 19. Otherwise, they risk losing access to funding earmarked for the next 12 years. FIFA Forward Enterprise is expected to handle not only commercial operations but also the development of international tournaments. The project presentation mentions potential expansion of competitions and further commercial optimisation, which should serve as the foundation for a new phase of revenue growth for FIFA.