The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) expects to receive the first tranche of private funding generated by the controversial plan by the end of October. This move is part of a broader strategy proposed by President Gianni Infantino, which involves creating a special subsidiary to manage FIFA’s tournaments with the aim of incorporating external investment.
To secure support for this model, FIFA has given its 211 member associations a deadline of 19 September to state their position on the proposed plan. The final decision on whether to proceed with the initiative will depend on the majority of votes gathered during this process.
One of the key objections to the proposal is the lack of prior consultation with relevant stakeholders before the plan was made public. In light of these controversies, UEFA has announced it will hold a meeting of its 55 member associations on Thursday afternoon, where it will discuss a response to the proposals made by the world governing body.
The fundraising process from private investors is set out in several phases. Investors are to be given access to the list of terms and selected project documentation in August. During September, potential investors will specify the amounts they are willing to invest and confirm the terms of cooperation.
Formalisation of the partnerships will take place in October, when statements of intent will be submitted, long-term contracts will be negotiated, and tenders will be awarded. By the end of the month, investors are required to transfer funds to FIFA’s account, thereby realising the first tranche of the projected private capital.
