FIFA–UEFA Power Struggle Escalates

The growing conflict between FIFA and UEFA has intensified after FIFA President Gianni Infantino formally offered financial incentives to the organization's 211 member associations in an effort to secure support for his controversial commercial reform plan.
According to letters sent to every FIFA member association, federations that back the proposal could receive up to $40 million. The plan includes an initial payment of $20 million, with Infantino setting a deadline of September 19 for national associations to approve the project and qualify for the first tranche of funding.
At the heart of the proposal is the creation of FIFA Forward Enterprise, a new commercial subsidiary that would manage the governing body's flagship competitions, including the FIFA World Cup. Under the plan, external investors would be able to purchase a minority stake in the company, allowing FIFA to unlock fresh commercial capital while retaining overall control.
The financial offer was unveiled less than 24 hours after reports of the proposal triggered widespread criticism across world football. Football authorities in Europe, Asia and North America have reportedly voiced strong concerns over the project, questioning both its governance and the speed with which it has been pursued.
Reports also suggest that several senior figures within FIFA, including some of the organization's eight vice-presidents, were not informed about the initiative before it became public. The proposed transaction is believed to have a potential valuation of up to $10 billion, making it one of the most significant commercial moves in football history.
FIFA has confirmed that the funding would come from the sale of a minority stake in FIFA Forward Enterprise. The governing body says the new commercial vehicle is designed to maximise long-term revenue from its premier competitions while bringing private investors into the business through a minority ownership structure.