FIFA Drops $20 Billion Investment Plan After Backlash

FIFA has abandoned a controversial plan to create a $20 billion company that would control the commercial rights to its top events, mainly the World Cup. President Gianni Infantino announced the decision in a statement released late Friday, saying the project had created divisions. The plan had drawn growing backlash after FIFA proposed selling a stake in its flagship competitions to private investors. Infantino said it had become clear that the project was divisive, though he did not give further details. The withdrawal marks a significant reversal for the embattled FIFA chief, who had pushed the proposal as a way to bring in outside money. Critics within football had raised concerns about handing control of the sport's most valuable events to private interests. The statement did not say whether FIFA would pursue any alternative investment model. The decision follows weeks of internal opposition and public criticism from member associations and officials. The plan had been expected to reshape how FIFA sells broadcasting and sponsorship rights for future tournaments, including the next men's World Cup. With the project now scrapped, FIFA's existing commercial structure remains in place. Infantino's leadership has faced intense scrutiny in recent years, and this episode adds to the pressure on him as he prepares for reelection.