FIFA Adviser Resigns as World Cup Stake Sale Sparks Global Revolt

Cordeiro, a former banker and U.S. Soccer Federation vice president, described the initiative as a move to mortgage the future of football without justification. His departure follows scathing criticism from FIFA’s own ranks, including Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour, who accused the president of prioritizing personal interests over the organization’s core mission. The proposal centers on creating a $20-billion subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise, with investment led by Joshua Kushner’s Thrive Capital.

Opposition has intensified rapidly across the globe. UEFA’s 55 member nations have unanimously voted to boycott all FIFA tournaments, while the Asian Football Confederation and CONCACAF have issued formal rejections. Despite the mounting pressure, FIFA maintains it will continue its consultation process with all 211 national associations, dismissing reports of a widespread collapse as inaccurate. Infantino has attempted to sway support by promising each member association $40 million if the deal secures approval by September 19, yet the coalition of dissenting federations—representing over half of FIFA’s membership—continues to challenge the legitimacy of the process.