FIFA scraps controversial World Cup investment plan after backlash
Football's world governing body Fifa abandons plans to sell off stakes in its major competitions after widespread opposition to president Gianni Infantino's proposal.
Sunday, August 9, 2026
FIFA scraps controversial World Cup investment plan after backlash — Sunday, August 9, 2026
FIFA scraps private investment plan for World Cup after member backlash; Pochettino extends USMNT contract to 2030; ongoing Infantino controversy with FIFA alleging coordinated discrediting campaign. The 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway as the first 48‑team, three‑host‑nation tournament, staged across 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the final scheduled for 19 July at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey.
Biggest developments
USA Coach Mauricio Pochettino Signs New Deal Through 2030 World Cup
Mauricio Pochettino is running it back with the U.S. men's national team.
FIFA scraps World Cup private investment plans as Infantino fights for his future
FIFA and Gianni Infantino have performed a dramatic U-turn on his plot to sell a stake in its commercial and event operations after widespread condemnation of the plans.
Important posts & threads
UEFA reportedly considering investigation into Infantino
🚨 UEFA is reportedly considering an investigation into Gianni Infantino’s 16-year tenure at the organisation, following allegations surrounding a payment made to a woman linked to the FIFA president.
FIFA claims coordinated campaign to discredit Infantino
🚨 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: FIFA claims there is a coordinated campaign to discredit Gianni Infantino and the organization, accusing critics of spreading misinformation and making baseless allegations.
Bullish takes
- The 2026 World Cup is the first 48‑team tournament and the first hosted by three nations, which significantly expands commercial and viewership opportunities across North America and globally.
Critical takes
- Host cities in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico are absorbing large public costs for security, infrastructure, and stadium upgrades, with limited direct revenue sharing from FIFA, raising concerns about long‑term fiscal returns.
Why this matters
Post-tournament governance shifts and leadership scrutiny could reshape FIFA's commercial and expansion strategies ahead of future cycles.