A top official leaves FIFA, deepening the fallout from Infantino’s World Cup sell-off plan
Summary
Kevin Lamour, FIFA’s chief operating officer, has left his job after criticizing FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s plan to sell future World Cup profits to private investors. The plan, which faced strong opposition from global soccer officials, including top continental federations, was withdrawn following the backlash.Key Facts
- Kevin Lamour left his role as FIFA’s chief operating officer in early August 2024.
- Lamour said FIFA staff were “deceived” by Infantino’s lack of openness about the World Cup money plan.
- The plan involved selling stakes in future World Cup profits to private equity funds, aiming to raise $20 billion.
- FIFA senior adviser Carlos Cordeiro also resigned and called the plan “a bad deal for football.”
- Top soccer bodies from Europe, Asia, and North/Central America called the plan a “fundamental breach of trust.”
- Infantino withdrew the $20 billion proposal after strong criticism and threats of boycotts by UEFA and other groups.
- Some soccer federations withdrew support for Infantino, while others, including six Arab federations, showed full support.
- Infantino has been FIFA president since 2016 and is seeking re-election in late 2024.
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