FIFA is moving to sell a minority stake in a newly created commercial arm that it values at $20 billion. The global football governing body is setting up a separate entity to house its revenue-generating operations, including sponsorship and media rights, and plans to bring in outside investors while keeping majority control.
The $20 billion valuation
The valuation places the new commercial entity among the most valuable sports-related businesses in the world. For context, FIFA reported total revenue of $7.6 billion in the four-year cycle ending with the 2022 World Cup. The $20 billion figure suggests the organization expects significant future growth from its commercial operations, which include the men's and women's World Cups, club competitions, and licensing deals.
Minority stake structure
By selling only a minority stake, FIFA retains control over the entity's strategic decisions and governance. The exact percentage being offered has not been disclosed, but the structure allows the organization to raise capital without ceding operational authority. The move mirrors a trend among sports bodies and leagues that have spun off commercial units to attract investment while keeping core governance intact.
FIFA is in early discussions with potential investors, according to people familiar with the process. No final deal has been reached, and the terms remain fluid. The organization has not publicly commented on the timeline or the identity of interested parties. The sale is expected to take several months to complete, with further details likely to emerge as negotiations progress.
