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ESPN and FIFA discuss U-15 World Cup plan amid private equity chaos

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 27, 2026, 7:00 PM

Last updated Aug 27, 2026

ESPN and FIFA discuss U-15 World Cup plan amid private equity chaos

Summary

FIFA President Gianni Infantino's plan for a U-15 World Cup has reportedly included discussions with ESPN about broadcasting and hosting the event at Disney's Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Florida. The proposed tournament is modeled after the Little League World Series and would feature teams from all 211 FIFA nations. However, FIFA later announced the tournament location would be in Baku this October. Infantino’s controversial plans, including ideas for a match between Israel and Palestine, have drawn severe backlash leading to calls for his resignation. The fallout has raised questions about the future of private investment in FIFA and possible relationships with ESPN regarding broadcasting rights.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

What We Know

•ESPN discussed hosting the U-15 World Cup at Disney in Orlando.
•Infantino's plans for the tournament included controversial match proposals.
•FIFA announced the U-15 World Cup will be held in Baku this October.
•Infantino faces calls for resignation amid backlash over private equity plans.
•ESPN's involvement could affect future FIFA broadcasting rights negotiations.

Latest Updates

7:00 PMYahoo Sports — ESPN reportedly discussed Gianni Infantino plan for U-15 World Cup

What they're saying

"
The scheming of Gianni Infantino to bring private equity into world soccer has brought chaos to FIFA. But his plans go beyond selling a stake in the World Cup and reportedly involve a children’s competition inspired by the Little League World Series with a potential partner in ESPN. ESPN has televised the Little League World…
— Yahoo Sports

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