Archive · 31 Jul 2026
Joshua Kushner Leads FIFA’s Controversial Commercial Deal Proposal
FIFA’s boss, Gianni Infantino, wants to sell part of the money‑making parts of the World Cup to a big investor named Joshua Kushner.
The deal would give Kushner’s company a new company called FIFA Forward Enterprise that would own TV rights, sponsorships, and tickets.
Many football groups, especially in Europe, are upset and say the plan steals the soul of football.
They have even threatened to stop playing in FIFA tournaments.
The plan also offers each country a big cash bonus to join.
Some people worry that Infantino could keep a powerful job in the new company even after he leaves FIFA.
The whole thing is causing a big fight in the football world.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino proposes selling 20% of World Cup commercial rights to a private equity syndicate led by Joshua Kushner.
The deal values FIFA’s commercial assets at $20 billion and would create FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) to hold broadcasting, sponsorship, licensing, and ticketing rights.
UEFA and several national associations have boycotted FIFA competitions, citing the plan as a threat to football’s soul and governance.
The proposal includes a $20 million sign‑on bonus for each member federation, with increases to $22 million and $24 million in future cycles.
Critics fear Infantino could retain executive power through a commissioner role in FFE, extending his influence beyond his presidential term.
- Who
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino and investor Joshua Kushner
- What
- Proposal to sell 20% of FIFA World Cup commercial rights to a private equity syndicate
- When
- Announced in 2024, with a vote scheduled for FIFA’s 211 member federations
- Where
- International football governance, with implications for FIFA competitions worldwide
- Why
- To raise capital and modernize commercial operations, while facing backlash over governance concerns
- Proposed Stake
- 20% of FIFA commercial rights
- Valuation
- $20 billion
- Investor
- Joshua Kushner (Thrive Eternal)
- Stakeholder Boycott
- UEFA and 55 national associations
- Sign‑on Bonus
- $20 million per federation