FIFA President Gianni Infantino pursued investment proposals from external investors without informing the FIFA Council. Anonymous sources close to three council members revealed this oversight. Infantino’s plans involved creating an Under-15 tournament inspired by the Little League World Series, including all 211 FIFA nations.
The Athletic disclosed Infantino’s talks to commercialize this youth festival with Juan Carlos Rodríguez and Eldridge Industries, led by Todd Boehly. They explored hosting the event at ESPN’s sports complex near Disney World, with ESPN set to broadcast it in the US.
Infantino envisioned the opening match between Israel and Palestine, a symbolic gesture following previous unsuccessful peace efforts. The proposal involved over $250 million in financial commitments, including terms for a 20 to 30-year partnership using FIFA’s brand.
Several FIFA Council members claimed they learned about these commercialization talks only through media reports. They questioned whether this move jeopardized FIFA’s non-profit status. Council representatives felt Infantino exceeded his authority.
FIFA describes its Council as the main decision-making body, comprising vice-presidents and elected members, including confederation presidents. Many were unaware of Infantino’s actions, interpreting it as part of a centralized leadership style.
A FIFA spokesperson stated the Council was informed in December 2025 about the development to manage the new tournament’s costs. However, the focus on sustainability did not explicitly mention external investments.
The FIFA administration emphasized that it engages in numerous internal discussions. The Council approves concrete proposals under set regulations. FIFA also asserted no internal objections to the commercialization or its effect on tax status arose.
Infantino’s secret discussions with Thrive Eternal, Joshua Kushner’s fund seeking a 21 percent stake in FIFA’s operations, might conflict with this proposal. Thrive declined to confirm awareness of FIFA’s commercialization intentions.
FIFA aims to establish a global Under-15 event, as announced in December 2025. Boys will compete first, with a girls’ edition in 2027. The first tournament will occur in Azerbaijan, without external investment, as per a FIFA Bureau decision. FIFA cited Baku’s infrastructure as suitable for hosting.