FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced a deadline of September 19 for the 211 member federations to decide on a contentious investment scheme that aims to establish a FIFA subsidiary. This subsidiary would be partially owned by private investors, with plans to manage major events such as the men's and women's World Cups and the Club World Cup.

Investment Proposal Details

Infantino's proposal involves a one-time offer of $20 million (approximately $28.7 million) as part of a broader $20 billion initiative to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors. The plan has faced criticism from various international soccer organizations, with UEFA planning to convene an emergency online meeting for its 55 member federations to discuss the growing opposition to FIFA's scheme.

Connections to Political Figures

The investment effort is reportedly backed by Joshua Kushner, brother of Jared Kushner, who is known for his ties to former U.S. President Donald Trump. Infantino's initiative is seen as part of a broader strategy to align FIFA with influential figures in Trump's orbit, which has included the establishment of a FIFA peace prize and facilitating U.S. forward Folarin Balogun's participation in the World Cup.

In a letter to FIFA members, Infantino described the investment opportunity as "singular and unique," emphasizing his responsibility to present such initiatives. The proposal has the potential to significantly elevate Joshua Kushner's profile, given his longstanding financial connections with his brother Jared, who has been an early investor in Joshua's venture capital firm.