Arsene Wenger has publicly backed FIFA’s decision to abandon its controversial World Cup privatization plan, insisting the proposal had to be scrapped to protect the integrity and independence of world football.
The former Arsenal manager, who serves as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, released a statement on Tuesday distancing himself from the failed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) project after mounting criticism engulfed FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
Infantino’s proposal sought to sell a 20 percent stake in FIFA’s commercial and tournament operations to private equity investors through the newly created FFE. The ambitious plan sparked fierce opposition from football’s governing bodies, including UEFA, CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation, forcing FIFA to abandon the project last week.
Wenger made it clear he had no involvement in the proposal and only learned about it through media reports.
“The recent events at FIFA deserve some clarity from my side,” Wenger said.
The Frenchman explained that his responsibilities at FIFA are focused on football development, including youth academies, coaching education, data analysis and technical advice to the International Football Association Board (IFAB), rather than commercial or governance matters.
“I was not involved in this strategic plan and first became aware of the project through media reports,” Wenger stated.
“The decision to withdraw the project was absolutely necessary and beyond question because I firmly believe in an independent FIFA that serves our game with commitment, transparency and integrity.”
His comments add to the growing pressure on Infantino, whose leadership has come under intense scrutiny since the proposal was revealed.
FIFA Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour also criticized the initiative, claiming staff members had been “deceived” by the project, while several senior football officials have openly questioned the decision-making process.
The backlash has extended across Europe, with UEFA declaring it has lost confidence in Infantino’s leadership after threatening to boycott FIFA competitions if the proposal had gone ahead.
National associations, including Wales, have already withdrawn their support for the FIFA president’s re-election campaign, while England’s Football Association is also expected to formally revoke its backing.
Infantino is expected to seek a final term as FIFA president in the March 2027 election, where he will require support from at least 106 of FIFA’s 211 member associations.
However, the fallout from the failed World Cup investment proposal has significantly weakened his position, leaving his political future increasingly uncertain as calls for greater transparency and governance reforms continue to grow across world football.