FIFA World Cup plan fallout: Infantino’s senior adviser Cordeiro resigns

Carlos Cordeiro, a senior adviser to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, has resigned from his post with immediate effect. His departure comes as a direct response to a controversial proposal that would allow private investors to buy a stake in FIFA World Cup events. Cordeiro described the move as a bad deal for the future of the sport and publicly declared his opposition to the plan.

The proposal in question involves the creation of a twenty billion dollar subsidiary known as FIFA Forward Enterprise. Under the current plan, FIFA would offer up to twenty percent of this entity to external investors. Reports indicate the venture would receive funding from Joshua Kushner. FIFA leadership argues that member associations need to act to avoid being left behind, setting a deadline of September 19 for a decision.

Cordeiro questioned the financial necessity of the plan. He noted that FIFA currently holds no debt and maintains significant cash reserves. He pointed to fifteen billion dollars in revenue generated between 2022 and 2026 as proof that the organization already possesses the capital required to support its member associations. Cordeiro, a former Goldman Sachs executive and US Soccer Federation official, stated that the organization is effectively mortgaging the future of the game without a logical justification.

FIFA issued a statement claiming that inaccurate media reports have interrupted their consultation process. However, the organization intends to move forward with the proposal for its two hundred and eleven member associations. Cordeiro previously served as the representative for football on the White House Task Force for the 2026 World Cup, marking his resignation as a significant rift within the upper echelons of the governing body.