Infantino sets a deadline to approve his investment plan

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has set a deadline of September 19 for the 211 member federations to approve his private investment plan. The project aims to allocate up to $40 million in funds to each affiliated association. Infantino had already called for calm following recent tensions over the refusal of a visa to a Somali referee.

The plan presented by Infantino seeks to strengthen the financial resources of federations through private investment. Each association could thus gain access to funds of up to $40 million. The stated goal is to support the development of football worldwide. The 2026 World Cup remains at the heart of priorities, with major economic stakes for the organizers. The federations therefore have until September 19 to decide on this project. A swift decision could enable accelerated implementation of the funding. FIFA is banking on the support of its members to make this initiative a reality by the end of the year. This investment plan is part of a drive to modernize and democratize football. The $40 million per federation could be used to finance infrastructure, training programs, or social projects. FIFA emphasizes the importance of these funds in reducing inequalities between different confederations. Federations in Africa, Asia, and South America, which are often less financially endowed, could particularly benefit from this initiative. Infantino stressed the need for a united response from the 211 members to ensure the project's effectiveness.