World Leagues Association opposes FIFA's World Cup equity sale plans
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 11:03 AM
Last updated Jul 30, 2026
The World Leagues Association has urged FIFA to withdraw its plans to sell stakes in the FIFA Forward Enterprise. The initiative aims to secure funding for national associations while involving private investors, leading to concerns over potential impacts on domestic and international competitions. Richard Masters, Premier League chief executive and WLA chair, emphasized the need for FIFA to consider the interests of all stakeholders in football. FIFA maintains that while investors would oversee commercial rights, they would not influence the frequency of major tournaments. The WLA's statement was supported by 12 leagues, including the Big Five European leagues.
- •WLA calls for FIFA to withdraw plans for selling World Cup stakes.
- •FIFA aims to create FIFA Forward Enterprise for funding.
- •Concerns raised over potential conflicts impacting football calendars.
- •Masters stresses need for inclusive decision-making in football.
- •Statement supported by multiple global football leagues.
- 11:03 AMYahoo Sports — World Leagues Association urges FIFA to withdraw World Cup sale plans
"FIFA has been urged to withdraw controversial plans to sell stakes in a new World Cup company by the World Leagues Association chaired by Premier League chief executive Richard Masters. FIFA is seeking approval from national associations to create FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), promising them huge increases in development funding if the plan gets the green light.
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