The Times: Infantino proposes $40 million to each federation
According to Championat.
Context
Gianni Infantino, as FIFA president, is leading a proposal that could transform the way member associations interact financially with the organization. Its approach, which includes selling World Cup rights to outside investors, is seen by some as a risky strategy, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, where FIFA hopes to maximize revenue and expand football's reach globally.
Why this matters
Gianni Infantino's proposal could have a significant impact on the finances of FIFA's member associations, especially as the 2026 World Cup approaches. Funding $40 million for each federation could help improve infrastructure and football development in several countries, including Mexico, which will host the tournament. However, the controversy surrounding the sale of rights to external investors raises questions about the integrity of football and the influence of money on the sport.
Main conclusions
- The Times: Infantino proposes $40 million to each federation.
- Report from The Times points out that Infantino proposed $40 million to each FIFA federation, if they approve the sale of part of the World Cup rights to external investors.
- Инфантино предложил членам ФИФА for $40 млн за одобрение продажи прав на ЧМ — The Times - Чемпионат.
Gianni Infantino reportedly proposed financial support of $40 million (around 37 million euros) to each of FIFA's 211 member federations, conditional on the approval of an operation to sell part of the rights to the World Cup to external investors. The information is provided by the British newspaper The Times, which cites a communication sent by the FIFA president to national associations.
According to the same source, the plan foresees the distribution of part of the revenue resulting from the sale of a portion of the tournament's rights — an operation whose exact nature (commercial and/or media) is not detailed in the report. The process is being consulted with all federations and the deadline indicated for decision is 53 days, after which FIFA intends to finalize the strategy for the next cycle. In the text sent to the associations, Infantino emphasizes that the final decision rests entirely with the member federations.
The Times adds that, if the plan is given the green light, a financing package valued at $10 billion will become available from January 1, 2027, presented as the start of a new phase of collaboration with external partners. If the proposal is not approved, the organization that governs world football will maintain the previously announced financing parameters, albeit reinforced by $2.7 billion.
The same publication notes that there are voices internal and external to the organization contesting the entry of private investors into part of the World Cup rights, classifying the offer of financial support as a potential bribery attempt. This reading is rejected by defenders of the plan, who see it as a mechanism to accelerate investment in the development of football at a global level.
The debate comes at a time when the 2026 World Cup — which will take place in the United States, Mexico and Canada — is approaching with great strides. It will be the biggest edition ever, with 48 teams, 104 games and 16 stadiums, which exponentially increases the logistical needs and the potential for revenue in sponsorships and broadcasting rights. Traditionally, the largest share of FIFA's revenue comes precisely from these rights and commercial agreements, pillars that could be reconfigured if the partial sale progresses.
For federations, the proposal represents, according to the reported contours, a potential significant reinforcement of treasury, with an impact on areas such as infrastructure, training and basic programs. Even so, the eventual transfer of part of the rights to the World Cup to external investors opens up a sensitive dossier, which puts immediate liquidity and strategic control over the most valuable assets in national team football in the balance. The outcome will be known after the consultation period, with the decision being made exclusively by the 211 national associations.
What happens next
The federations have 53 days to deliberate on Infantino's proposal. If approved, FIFA could begin a new funding cycle from January 1, 2027, with a $10 billion package. Otherwise, FIFA will maintain the already established financing parameters, but with an increase of $2.7 billion, which could still benefit associations, but without the significant capital injection that the sale of rights could provide.
Frequently asked questions
What happened to Gianni Infantino's proposal?
Gianni Infantino proposed financial support of $40 million to each of FIFA's 211 member federations, conditional on approval of the sale of part of the World Cup rights.
Who confirmed Infantino's proposal?
Information about the proposal was provided by the British newspaper The Times, which cites a statement
action sent by the FIFA president to national associations.
Why is this proposal being discussed now?
The proposal is being submitted for consultation with all federations, with a deadline of 53 days for a decision, after which FIFA intends to finalize the strategy for the next cycle.
What changes could occur if the proposal is approved?
If approved, a financing package valued at $10 billion will be available from January 1, 2027, beginning a new phase of collaboration with external partners.
What are the concerns surrounding the proposal?
There are voices internal and external to FIFA who contest the entry of private investors into the rights to the World Cup, considering the offer of financial support as a potential bribery attempt.