FIFA World Cup sell-off plans have drawn a public response from Joshua Kushner, whose investment firm has been linked with a possible deal to buy a stake in the governing body’s commercial business.
Mr Kushner, founder of Thrive Capital and the younger brother of Jared Kushner, Donald Trump’s former son-in-law and senior adviser, has not confirmed that an investment agreement has been reached.
Reports that private investors could acquire part of FIFA’s commercial operations have prompted questions over whether revenues and rights associated with the World Cup could be brought under outside ownership.
The proposals are understood to concern a minority interest in FIFA’s commercial arm, rather than ownership of the governing body or control of the tournament itself. Any deal would nevertheless give investors a financial interest in the global football business and its major competitions.
FIFA World Cup investment plans
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has been involved in discussions about developing new sources of commercial income ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Joshua Kushner’s name emerged after reports that Thrive Capital was among the potential investors considering a stake. The firm, which has backed a number of technology companies, has not publicly announced an agreement with FIFA.
Speaking after the reports, Mr Kushner broke his silence on the proposed transaction but stopped short of confirming that his firm would invest. The comments leave the talks at an exploratory stage, with the final structure and value of any deal still unclear.
The prospect of a sale has attracted scrutiny because FIFA’s commercial rights include some of the most valuable assets in sport. Critics have questioned whether long-term World Cup income should be shared with private investors, while supporters of the plan argue that outside capital could help FIFA expand its business.
FIFA has not announced a completed sale. The organisation and potential investors would still need to settle the terms of any arrangement before it could proceed.
