ABUJA, Nigeria — Former President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick, has expressed support for FIFA’s proposal to sell a minority stake in the commercial operations of the FIFA World Cup, describing the initiative as a strategic move that could generate significant financial benefits for football associations across the globe.
Pinnick’s backing comes as FIFA seeks approval from its member associations for a plan to establish a commercial subsidiary that would oversee the marketing and commercial rights of its major tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup. Under the proposal, FIFA intends to sell a 20 percent stake in the subsidiary to investors while retaining overall control of its competitions.
According to Pinnick, the proposal represents an opportunity for football’s governing body to unlock additional revenue streams that can be reinvested into the development of the sport. He argued that the financial returns from such an arrangement would enable FIFA to increase funding for member associations, strengthen football infrastructure and support grassroots development programmes in different parts of the world.
The former CAF vice-president noted that many national football federations, particularly those in developing countries, rely heavily on FIFA grants to fund competitions, youth development, coaching education and administrative activities. He said additional revenue generated through the proposed commercial structure could improve financial support for these associations and enhance football development globally.
FIFA recently informed its 211 member associations that each federation could receive about 40 million dollars if the proposal gains the required approval. The governing body has asked member associations to indicate their support before the September deadline, describing the initiative as part of its long-term strategy to maximise the commercial value of its competitions while maintaining control over football’s most prestigious tournaments.
However, the proposal has generated mixed reactions within the football community. While supporters believe it offers a sustainable way to increase investment in the sport, critics have expressed concern that introducing outside investors into the commercial operations of the World Cup could gradually reduce FIFA’s independence and commercial control over its flagship competition.
Pinnick maintained that any agreement should include safeguards to ensure FIFA retains authority over football decisions while allowing commercial partners to contribute to revenue growth. He stressed that transparency, accountability and proper governance would be essential to the success of the proposed arrangement.
Football finance experts say the FIFA World Cup remains one of the most valuable sporting properties in the world, attracting billions of viewers and generating substantial income through broadcasting rights, sponsorships, ticket sales and commercial partnerships. They believe a carefully managed investment structure could further increase the tournament’s commercial value without affecting its sporting integrity.
As discussions continue, member associations are expected to evaluate the proposal before voting on its future. The outcome could shape the commercial direction of FIFA competitions for years to come while determining how additional revenues are distributed among football federations worldwide.
