Diallo warns Infantino’s World Cup stake sale threatens football’s soul

In the vaulted press room of the French Football Federation, Philippe Diallo stared at a projected chart showing a multi‑billion‑euro subsidiary poised to sell up to 20 % of the World Cup to private investors, a plan he denounced as contrary to football’s core values.

FIFA announced the creation of a new vehicle to manage its flagship event, stating that it intends to sell stakes of up to twenty percent to private capital. The subsidiary is expected to be valued in the multi‑billion‑euro range.

Fédération Française de Football president Philippe Diallo openly criticised the proposal, describing it as “not up to the standards of what football stands for.” He targeted FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s plan, calling the multi‑billion‑euro subsidiary offering up to 20 % of the tournament to external investors.

UEFA joined the criticism, accusing the governing body of putting the game’s “soul” up for sale. The European confederation’s statement echoed concerns raised by several senior executives across the continent.

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Diallo said he first learned of the scheme after an investigation was published. “It was revealed in the press, without any prior information. We know neither its philosophy nor its necessity, nor its financial structure or funding,” he said.

He labelled the initiative “worrying” and a “cause for concern.”

Diallo also referenced recent FIFA controversies, including Folarin Balogun’s revoked red card and the expansion of the World Cup from 48 to 64 teams, saying they “necessitate a review of this governance, which is not up to what football stands for.”

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When asked about the upcoming FIFA election in March 2027, Diallo stopped short of confirming his vote. “There cannot be a new election without more clarification, democracy and transparency. We need to build a demanding relationship with FIFA, and we’re not there yet,” he added.

Earlier in the week, Diallo introduced Zinédine Zidane as the France national team manager during a ceremony on Tuesday.