FIFA is preparing to sell a 21 per cent stake in its commercial operations subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), aiming to raise $4.2 billion from outside investors. This move, which consolidates commercial operations and events like the World Cup, has drawn swift criticism from three of FIFA's six confederations and several member associations, who were reportedly not consulted.

FIFA projects FFE to be worth $20 billion, with the proposed sale intended to fund a significant increase in development funding for its 211 member associations. The plan offers $10 billion in development funding over the 2027-30 cycle, a substantial jump from the $3.86 billion budgeted for 2023-26. Each member association could receive up to $40 million over the next four years, compared to previous cycles where payments were significantly lower.

A portion of this funding, particularly through a program called 'FIFA Fast-Forward,' has raised further concerns due to a tight opt-in deadline of September 19. This has led to accusations that FIFA is pressuring members to approve the equity sale. While FIFA argues that professionalizing its commercial arm will boost revenues and benefit global football development, the lack of consultation and the proposed sale have created considerable controversy.