FIFA abandons the intention to have private investors.
Amid tensions and outrage, FIFA, through the voice of president Gianni Infantino, announced that it will not proceed with the project aimed at attracting private investors.
This comes after UEFA declared readiness to boycott the World Cup and other FIFA competitions if Infantino continues with his plan.
"The FIFA Forward Enterprise project was designed to create a solid foundation for further strengthening FIFA member associations and developing football globally, especially in countries most in need of support.
From the outset, we made it clear that this would only be done if the majority of FIFA member associations supported it and only after consultation with them, the FIFA Council, confederations, and other stakeholders.
After carefully listening to all viewpoints, it became clear that this project has caused divisions that, regardless of the level of support it enjoys, no longer serve the purpose for which it was initiated.
Our goal has always been – and will always remain – to unite and improve. Consequently, this proposal will not be implemented.
In the coming period, I intend to bring together all stakeholders, in the spirit of common interest in football, with the goal of continuing the development of this sport globally, especially in countries most in need of our support," stated Gianni Infantino in a statement issued by FIFA.
FIFA aimed to establish an entity to manage its competitions, within which private investors could purchase stakes.