Carlos Cordeiro: FIFA Adviser Quits in Protest over World Cup investment plans, becoming the most senior figure to publicly break ranks with President Gianni Infantino. The former Goldman Sachs banker and senior adviser since 2021 resigned with immediate effect on Friday. He called the proposal to sell a minority stake in FIFA’s commercial rights “a bad deal for football” and questioned both its financial logic and governance. His exit adds internal pressure to the mounting external opposition from UEFA, Concacaf, and the AFC.
In his statement, Cordeiro argued FIFA has no need for outside investment, pointing to billions in reserves, zero debt, and projected revenues of $15 billion. The plan would raise roughly $4.2 billion by selling 20% of a new subsidiary to investors, but Cordeiro said it, again labeling the proposal as a bad deal. He also criticized the rushed timetable, saying member associations were being asked to decide in barely 50 days. He urged FIFA officials to speak up, stating, “When these principles come into conflict, football must come first.”
The controversy centers on the creation of FIFA Forward Enterprise, which would manage broadcasting, sponsorship, and ticketing rights. With more than 100 national associations now opposed, the proposal appears unlikely to pass. Cordeiro’s resignation marks the first major internal rebellion against Infantino, whose allies are now publicly questioning the deal.
His departure strengthens the case against the plan, with critics pointing to governance and transparency failures. For now, the future of the World Cup investment hangs in the balance as opposition grows from confederations and now the president’s inner circle. The decision ahead is crucial, and it remains to be seen whether Infantino can restore trust or abandon the proposal.