FIFA Secretly Sells Stake in Media Division to Private Investors
FIFA President Gianni Infantino secretly met with Joshua Kushner last year to discuss selling a stake in FIFA's media and commercial division. The talks have led to the creation of FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a new entity that bundles FIFA's most lucrative revenue streams, including media rights, sponsorships, and ticketing for major events like the World Cup.
The FFE proposal would see FIFA retain majority control while offering up to 21% of the entity to outside investors. The initial fundraising goal is $4.2 billion, with proceeds going towards expanded development programs across FIFA's member associations.
Joshua Kushner's Thrive Eternal is leading the consortium, and J.P. Morgan has advised on the structural framework for the FFE. However, the deal has been met with opposition from UEFA, which has raised concerns about commercializing FIFA's governance structure.