FIFA president Gianni Infantino withdraws $20 billion World Cup investment plan

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 1, 2026, 12:06 AM

Last updated Aug 1, 2026

FIFA president Gianni Infantino withdraws $20 billion World Cup investment plan

Summary

FIFA president Gianni Infantino announced the withdrawal of a controversial proposal to create a $20 billion spinoff company encompassing FIFA's commercial operations, including the men’s and women’s World Cups. The decision comes after significant backlash from global soccer bodies, including threats of a walkout by European federations. Infantino cited the project’s divisive nature as a key reason for its cancellation. He confirmed that the proposal would not move forward following extensive consultations on the matter.

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Key Details

•Infantino faced opposition from various soccer governing bodies.
•The proposal aimed to fold commercial operations into a new company.
•Concerns over division and backlash led to the plan's withdrawal.
•Joshua Kushner's investment firm was identified as the lead investor.

Latest Updates

12:06 AMCBS Sports — FIFA scraps controversial World Cup plan: Gianni Infantino no longer seeking $20 billion investment

What they're saying

"
Amid intense pressure from all corners of the world and sport, the FIFA chief has called an end to a plan that seemed destined to alter the game in ways never seen before
— CBS Sportsby Roger Gonzalez

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