FIFA has announced plans to establish a new commercial entity that could generate billions of dollars in additional revenue during each FIFA World Cup cycle, marking a significant shift in how the governing body manages its commercial operations.
Although FIFA operates as a non-profit organization, the World Cup already generates billions in revenue through broadcasting rights, sponsorships, ticketing, and licensing. The proposed commercial arm is expected to maximize the tournament’s commercial value and create new long-term revenue opportunities.
The initiative is reportedly valued at around $20 billion, reflecting FIFA’s ambition to further expand the commercial potential of its flagship competition.
The proposal has drawn criticism from UEFA, which issued a statement saying: “The soul and governance of football are not assets to trade.” The European governing body argued that football’s governance should remain separate from purely commercial interests.
Further details on the structure and ownership of the proposed commercial entity are expected to be announced in the coming months as FIFA continues to reshape its business strategy around the World Cup.