The Ghana Football Association (GFA) stands to gain as much as $40 million if it supports FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s plan to sell minority stakes in the commercial rights of FIFA’s top competitions.
Infantino sent a letter to all 211 FIFA member associations, including the GFA, explaining the proposal and setting a deadline of September 19 for support. Associations that agree to the plan could get an initial $20 million starting January 1, 2027, and possibly up to $40 million through the broader funding program.
The proposal would have FIFA create a commercial subsidiary to manage the commercial rights of its main competitions, such as the FIFA World Cup. FIFA would then offer minority stakes in this new company to outside investors to boost its commercial revenue.
FIFA says money for member associations would come from selling a minority stake in FIFA Forward Enterprise, a subsidiary set up to maximize the commercial value of the FIFA organization’s competitions.
For Ghana, this funding could give a big boost to football development. The GFA might use the money for infrastructure, youth academies, women’s football, grassroots programs, referee training, and improving local competitions.
However, several football associations, especially in Europe, Asia, and North America, have criticized the proposal. They are concerned about issues like governance, transparency, and how quickly decisions are being made.
Some football officials have questioned whether FIFA consulted enough with its member associations before announcing the proposal. They argue that important stakeholders were not properly involved.
In his letter, Infantino defended the plan and called it a unique chance to change the financial future of world football.
“It is my duty and responsibility as FIFA President to present such game-changing opportunities to you, our members,” Infantino wrote.
“It is equally my duty and responsibility to ensure such proposals are sufficiently complete and feasible, replete with substantiated figures and clear terms to assist you in the decision-making process.”
The GFA has not yet said where it stands on the proposal. If it supports the plan before the September deadline, Ghana would be eligible for the first round of funding as FIFA moves ahead with its commercial changes.
About The Author
