European soccer body UEFA warns FIFA of legal action over Infantino's failed World Cup sell-off plan

European soccer body UEFA has warned FIFA of legal action over FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s failed attempt to sell a stake in future World Cup profits to private investors. The plan, known as the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), aimed to raise $4.2 billion from investors, including New York-based investor Joshua Kushner. The proposal was abruptly abandoned on Saturday, following widespread criticism and a global outcry. UEFA, along with other confederations, condemned the move, leading to calls for a boycott of all FIFA events during the proposal’s active period. The controversy surrounding the FFE plan began when media reports revealed the initiative, prompting immediate backlash. UEFA, representing 55 national football associations, took a leading role in opposing the scheme. On Thursday, these federations convened to agree on a boycott of FIFA events until the proposal was resolved. The decision came shortly before the deadline for member federations to accept the offer, which was set for mid-September. The FFE plan would have transferred control of FIFA’s lucrative commercial and tournament operations to a separate entity, valued at $20 billion, while still maintaining the 211 member federations' ownership of the organization. In response, UEFA’s legal team sent a letter dated Friday to FIFA, warning of potential legal action, arbitration, or regulatory complaints. The letter, issued by the law firm Dechert in New York, instructed 18 FIFA executives to preserve all relevant documents, emails, and data. It stated that any destruction or concealment of such materials could be considered spoliation of evidence. The letter emphasized that UEFA was “formally notifying” FIFA that legal proceedings were “reasonably anticipated” due to concerns over the plan’s compatibility with football governance. Infantino, who has faced mounting pressure since the World Cup, announced the withdrawal of the proposal hours before UEFA’s official stance. The plan had initially received pledges of support from approximately 200 of the 211 member federations, though many have since reversed their positions. The Welsh Football Association became the first to withdraw its backing, signaling a shift in sentiment among European nations. The FFE plan had also raised fears of creating a new role for Infantino beyond his current presidential tenure, offering significantly higher pay than his current $6 million annual salary. Critics argue that the FFE plan undermined the democratic structure of FIFA, which is governed by its 211 member federations. Kevin Lamour, FIFA’s chief operating officer, expressed disappointment, stating that staff felt misled by Infantino’s actions. The plan was seen as a personal ambition rather than a transparent effort to modernize FIFA’s financial model. Meanwhile, Infantino retains strong support in Africa, where he enjoys considerable influence, and in South America, where CONMEBOL relies on him to expand the 2030 World Cup to 64 teams. With the FFE plan now defunct, the focus shifts to the upcoming FIFA presidential election, scheduled for November 18. The candidate deadline is approaching, and the race will determine whether Infantino can secure another term. His stronghold in Morocco, a co-host of the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, adds to his chances. However, the fallout from the failed sale has complicated his campaign, as opposition grows both within and outside FIFA’s leadership. The outcome of the election will shape the future direction of international football for years to come.