CAF Urges Member Associations to Review FIFA's Private Investor Proposal

African Football Body Encourages Thorough Consultation Before Vote on Landmark Commercial Plan                                                    

                        

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has urged its 54 member associations to carefully examine FIFA's proposal to open part of the commercial operations of the FIFA World Cup and other global competitions to private investment before casting their votes on the initiative.

CAF said it remains committed to increasing financial resources available for football development across Africa but stressed that member associations should fully understand the proposal and actively participate in FIFA's consultation process before making a decision.

FIFA's Commercial Proposal

The proposal, championed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, would create a new commercial entity to manage the business rights of the FIFA World Cup and other major tournaments. Under the plan, FIFA would sell a minority stake—reported to be 20%—to private investors while retaining overall control of football governance.

FIFA argues that the investment could significantly increase commercial revenues, allowing billions of dollars to be redistributed to its 211 member associations to support football infrastructure, youth development, women's football and grassroots programmes worldwide.

CAF Calls for Careful Evaluation

In its communication to national football associations, CAF encouraged members to review the proposal in detail and contribute to discussions before any final decision is taken.

The African governing body said additional financial resources could provide substantial benefits for football development across the continent but emphasized the importance of understanding the long-term commercial, legal and governance implications of the proposed investment structure.

Debate Across Global Football

FIFA's proposal has generated mixed reactions across international football.

Supporters believe the plan could unlock new revenue streams and provide smaller football associations with significantly greater financial support.

However, several continental confederations and football stakeholders have expressed concerns about governance, transparency and the level of consultation surrounding the proposal. Critics have questioned whether the commercial restructuring could alter the long-term management of football's most valuable competitions.

Potential Impact on African Football

For many African football associations, increased funding could help improve stadium infrastructure, coaching programmes, youth academies, women's football initiatives and grassroots development.

CAF has consistently advocated for greater investment in football across the continent, arguing that stronger financial support is essential to narrowing the gap between African football and other regions.

The organisation nevertheless indicated that member associations should independently assess the proposal before reaching a collective position.

Decision Yet to Be Finalised

FIFA member associations are expected to continue reviewing the proposal during the consultation period before any formal approval process is completed.

As discussions continue, CAF has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that any future commercial arrangement ultimately strengthens football development across Africa while protecting the long-term interests of the global game.