FIFA President Gianni Infantino revealed that the FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative is a proposal and not an obligation for member associations, and opened the door for discussion.
FIFA's request to launch a company named FIFA Forward Enterprise valued at 20 billion US dollars, to be invested in with minority non-controlling stakes, was rejected by the European, North American, and Asian confederations. (See details)
Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced it would study the idea at the executive committee meeting. (See details)
FIFA President Gianni Infantino clarified via his "Instagram" account
"The FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative is a proposal and an opportunity, and part of a democratic consultation process with FIFA's 211 member associations and the FIFA Council.
If approved, it would become a subsidiary owned and managed by FIFA, enhancing FIFA's commercial operations and event organization through the marketing and organization of all competitions owned by FIFA, in addition to sponsorship, broadcasting, licensing, and new projects, for the benefit of FIFA's member associations, and opening horizons for previously untapped commercial value.
Strengthening the commercial side of the game is the natural next step in FIFA's evolution after a decade of governance reforms and expanded development. Through the FIFA Forward program, funding will rise from 8 million US dollars to 20 million US dollars for each FIFA member association, with the possibility of obtaining an additional 20 million US dollars through the new FIFA Fast Forward program.
This is a golden opportunity to accelerate the pace of football development around the world. But it is merely an offer, not an obligation. The choice belongs to our member associations in FIFA, and we are here to discuss it with everyone."
FIFA stated in its statement that "the 211 member associations will be given the opportunity to participate in the FIFA Fast-Forward (FFP) program to obtain one-time capital funding of up to 20 million US dollars. Participation will be entirely voluntary, and no member association will be obligated to participate."
It stressed that "any net benefits from the FFE company will be fully reinvested in football."
FIFA wants to establish an independent commercial company to manage its commercial rights and major events, following the huge financial gains from the 2026 World Cup held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
