Patrick Jackson

FIFA says it will continue consulting members on a plan to create FIFA Forward Enterprise, a commercial subsidiary that would manage major competitions and allow private investors to take limited, non-controlling stakes. UEFA and Concacaf oppose the proposal, with UEFA threatening to boycott the World Cup if it is approved; AFC has also raised serious concerns, while CAF and OFC plan to discuss it. FIFA president Gianni Infantino needs 106 of FIFA’s 211 votes, but UEFA and Concacaf together hold 96. FIFA says member associations could receive up to $40 million, while the expected investor group would be led by U.S. firm Thrive Eternal. Xabi Alonso also criticized private ownership of football and urged FIFA to preserve the sport’s public character.

FIFA is continuing with plans to create FIFA Forward Enterprise, a commercial subsidiary for its major competitions that would allow minority investments from private investors. President Gianni Infantino says the proposal does not amount to selling football and would increase funding for member associations, including a potential $40m payment for federations that support it. UEFA has threatened to boycott World Cups, while CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation have rejected or criticized the proposal over concerns about private ownership, insufficient consultation and the short approval deadline. The plan could create uncertainty for upcoming women's competitions and has intensified scrutiny of Infantino's leadership ahead of his expected re-election campaign. Supporters, including Uganda Football Federation representative Rogers Byamukama, argue that additional commercial resources could fund infrastructure and grassroots development in poorer football nations.

A fire in Lima’s La Victoria district killed 10 members of one family, including five children, with seven others managing to escape. Police are investigating suspected arson after reports that the family, who made mattresses and owned electric motorcycles, had been threatened by extortionists. Neighbours said attackers set fire to motorcycles outside the home, igniting flammable materials inside. Authorities confirmed the victims’ ages and said the bodies were burned beyond recognition, while the National Police issued a statement mourning the tragedy.