August 8, 2026
ZURICH — FIFA is facing growing political and financial pressure as questions emerge over its leadership, commercial strategy and the future direction of global football.
At the center of the controversy is FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who has faced criticism over ambitious commercial plans and growing opposition from parts of European football.
One of the most significant proposals involved FIFA selling a 20% stake in a new commercial company valued at almost $20 billion to private investors. The plan was later abandoned, but the controversy surrounding it has raised concerns about FIFA’s approach to business and governance.
Infantino continues to have strong support in several regions, particularly in Africa and Latin America. Supporters point to the significant growth in FIFA’s revenues during his presidency. However, the latest developments could make the organization’s next leadership battle more complicated.
Why It Matters for Football
FIFA is no longer simply an organization responsible for organizing international competitions. It has become a global sports-business powerhouse whose revenues depend heavily on broadcasting rights, sponsorships, marketing and major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup.
That means decisions over FIFA’s commercial assets could have consequences far beyond the organization itself.
The major question now is: Who will control the future business direction of global football?
LIV Golf Faces Its Own Financial Challenge
The uncertainty is not limited to football.
In golf, LIV Golf is also facing an important financial transition. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has been a major financial backer of the league, but discussions are underway over a potential new investment structure involving BC Partners.
The proposed changes could shape what has been described as a new phase for LIV Golf from 2027 onward.
If new investment is secured, LIV Golf could continue competing aggressively for top players and expand its global commercial ambitions. If negotiations fail, however, the league could face difficult questions about its long-term financial model.
The Bigger Picture
The developments surrounding FIFA and LIV Golf highlight a major trend in modern sports: elite competition is increasingly driven by money, investment and global commercial power.
Football and golf are no longer just about what happens on the field. Behind the scenes, billions of dollars are being invested in media rights, sponsorships, teams, tournaments and sports organizations.
For fans, the biggest question is what these financial and political battles will mean for the future of the games they follow.
One thing is clear: the business of sport has never been more powerful — or more complicated.