FIFA is considering a plan that would allow private investors to buy minority stakes in selected football operations while maintaining a strictly non-controlling ownership structure.

The proposal aims to bring new investment into the global game while ensuring football’s governing bodies retain full decision-making authority.

According to officials familiar with the discussions, the framework would permit institutional investors, private equity firms, and strategic partners to acquire minority interests without influencing governance, sporting regulations, or competition integrity.

FIFA believes the model could unlock new funding for infrastructure projects, youth development programmes, technology, and commercial expansion across its member associations.

FIFA is consulting legal, financial, and sporting experts before introducing formal regulations. The proposed safeguards would prevent investors from obtaining voting rights or influencing football-related decisions, protecting the independence of national associations and competitions.

Supporters of the proposal argue that responsible external investment could strengthen the sport’s financial sustainability, particularly in developing football nations.

However, critics have urged FIFA to ensure transparency and robust oversight, warning that commercial interests should never outweigh the values and competitive integrity that underpin the world’s most popular sport.