FIFA Council Confronts Infantino Over Secret World Cup Sell-Off Plan

FIFA President Gianni Infantino chaired a Council meeting in Zurich on Thursday, the first since his secretive World Cup sell-off plan was revealed and withdrawn 11 weeks ago. The proposal, known as FIFA Forward Enterprise, would have sold a permanent stake in tournament commercial rights to a private investor group led by Joshua Kushner.

Infantino apologized for the plan during the three-and-a-half-hour session, but Council members said critical questions remain unanswered. Football Association Chair Debbie Hewitt, a FIFA vice-president, stated that despite the apology, Infantino is not fit to lead unless he releases all documents related to the proposal.

“If he doesn't answer those questions now, he's not fit to be FIFA president.”

Hewitt said she specifically requested the FFE papers during the meeting but was told to submit questions in writing instead. She warned that the answers will determine whether she considers Infantino the right candidate for the presidential election scheduled for March 2027 in Rabat, Morocco.

The Council agenda also covered FIFA's US$5-6 billion reserves distribution to 211 member federations, disciplinary procedures, and governance standards. Critics argue the controversy highlights Infantino's increasingly executive, one-man leadership style.

It remains unclear if a majority of federations want to oust a president who has significantly increased their funding. The November 18 deadline for candidates to enter the presidential race approaches as the crisis deepens.