FIFA Advisor Resigns as World Cup Privatization Sparks Global Backlash

Cordeiro, a former U.S. Soccer Federation vice president appointed by Infantino in 2021, slammed the proposal to create a subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise, as an attempt to mortgage the future of the game without justification. While FIFA maintains that the investment, reportedly led by Joshua Kushner’s Thrive Capital, is necessary for development, the governing body faces a mounting revolt. UEFA’s 55 member nations have already moved to boycott future FIFA tournaments in response to the plan.

The resistance extends beyond Europe. Both the Asian Football Confederation and CONCACAF have publicly questioned the proposal, effectively isolating Infantino. Despite the pressure, FIFA insists the process remains democratic, offering member associations $40 million each to secure support by September 19. Yet, cracks in the opposition remain; representatives from the Czech Republic and Mexico have signaled a willingness to review the terms independently, ignoring the unified stance of their respective confederations. As coaching figures like Xabi Alonso voice concerns that the sport’s soul is being traded for private interests, FIFA’s push for a vote faces an increasingly precarious future.