FUFA set for sh148b windfall if it endorses FIFA's controversial World Cup plan
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has proposed creating a commercial subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprise that would manage the World Cup and other tournaments.
FUFA president Moses Magogo. File photo
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) is among 211 member associations set to receive a massive financial boost of up to $40m (sh148b) if it backs FIFA's controversial proposal to sell stakes in its major competitions, including the World Cup.
However, the global governing body has given member associations until September 19 to sign up to the plan, which has sparked a furious backlash from European football's ruling body UEFA and other stakeholders.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has proposed creating a commercial subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprise that would manage the World Cup and other tournaments, with private investors allowed to purchase minority stakes . The subsidiary is valued at $20 billion.
In a letter sent to all 211 member associations, Infantino outlined that if they back the proposal, a $10 billion funding package would become available from January 1, 2027.
"Should you wish to proceed, this $10 billion package will become available as of January 1, 2027, ushering in the next phase of our journey together," Infantino wrote in the letter seen by multiple media outlets.
Should associations reject the proposal, FIFA would instead provide $2.7 billion through its existing Forward development programme.
"In total for the upcoming cycle starting as of January 1, 2027, each member association will have the possibility of access up to $40 million per member association under this proposal," Infantino added .
The proposal has drawn sharp criticism, with UEFA issuing a scathing statement condemning FIFA's approach and deadline .
"The soul and governance of football are not assets to trade – especially with zero transparency as to who gains financially. None of us are the owners of football. It is not FIFA's to sell," UEFA said .
The Asian Football Confederation said it had not been consulted, while EU sports chief Glenn Micallef told FIFA: "Hands off our game".
Sources opposed to the plan have labelled it "pure bribery".
For FUFA, the decision presents a significant opportunity. The $40 million windfall would represent a major boost for football in Uganda, dwarfing the amounts typically received through FIFA's development programmes.