Fifa Offers Nations Up to $40m to Back Infantino’s Controversial Reform Plan

Fifa has offered its member associations up to $40 million (£30 million) in funding if they support President Gianni Infantino’s controversial proposal to restructure the commercial management of world football.

Under the plan, football federations that approve the proposal by 19 September will receive an initial $20 million (£15 million) from 1 January, with the prospect of a further $20 million at a later stage.

Fifa wants to establish a new commercial subsidiary to manage its flagship competitions, including the men’s World Cup, while allowing external investors to purchase stakes in the business.

The proposal has drawn fierce criticism, particularly from European football’s governing body, UEFA, which accused Fifa of putting financial interests ahead of the sport.

In a statement, UEFA said: “We have learned of Fifa’s deadline to associations to support their proposals or have the one-off payout offer withdrawn. This says everything you need to know about this plan.

“But having held discussions with many stakeholders across the game, UEFA knows there is significant and growing opposition to Fifa’s scheme.

“Fifa cannot continue to use our sport to enrich themselves and their friends. We can grow the game correctly.

“It’s time to prioritise associations, clubs, leagues, players and fans.”

The offer to member associations came less than 24 hours after Fifa unveiled the proposal, which is reported to have taken some of the organisation’s own leadership by surprise. It is understood that even some of Fifa’s eight vice-presidents were not informed in advance of the plan.

According to reports, the new commercial structure could generate as much as $10 billion (£7.5 billion) through outside investment.

Infantino has outlined the proposal in a five-page letter sent to national football associations, arguing that the new model would strengthen Fifa’s finances and provide significant benefits for its members.