Fifa president Gianni Infantino’s plan to sell stakes in the World Cup has drawn fierce backlash, but it’s possible to assemble a defence for the proposal. A behavioural excuse and a commercial justification can be made for Infantino’s plan, despite the intense criticism it has faced.
The road to power in international sports governing bodies is long and often dirty, involving the cultivation of relationships and promises of largesse. Once in office, leaders enjoy secure tenure, a luxurious lifestyle, and widespread fawning from member nations and commercial partners.
It’s rare for incumbent presidents to be seriously challenged in re-election, as opposing them can risk being thrown off the “gravy train”. Infantino, like other sports leaders, has undertaken the hard work to get to his position, and it’s possible that he’s only human and has lost his sense of proportion.
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The power of the presidency can feel like that of a political ruler, with huge financial rewards and stakes in hosting, broadcast, or sponsorship rights. This can lead to a sense of entitlement and a lack of accountability.
The trend in the sports industry has been to bring in outside money to event hosting, either to get new ventures off the ground or to enhance existing competitions. This can be seen as a form of venture capital to pursue new opportunities or to facilitate higher quality event presentation and marketing.
Fifa may be pursuing a combination of these goals across its tournaments, and despite its balance sheet riches, new money could drive fresh thinking and a more productive risk appetite. They are trying to enhance their competitions and pursue new opportunities.
However, the execution of Infantino’s plan has been widely criticised, with concerns over secrecy, bribes, and greed.
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Despite this, the core concept of bringing in outside money is on trend, and it’s possible that Fifa is trying to enhance its competitions and pursue new opportunities. The years Infantino has spent building relationships may pay off, and he may be able to rally support from member nations outside of Uefa.
As the situation unfolds, it’s likely that we’ll see more twists and turns, and it’s possible that Infantino will emerge from the crisis with his position intact. The fate of Infantino and his plan remains uncertain.
Gianni Infantino’s position is uncertain.