FIFA Official Sacked After Criticising Infantino’s World Cup Investment Plan

FIFA has parted ways with its Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour, weeks after he publicly criticised President Gianni Infantino over a controversial plan to sell a stake in the commercial rights to the World Cup. Lamour accused FIFA of having “deceived” staff over the proposal, describing it as a project driven by one person. He also criticised Infantino’s leadership and said he was prepared to lose his job for opposing the plan.

FIFA confirmed that Lamour’s working relationship with the organisation ended on 17 August, but gave no reason for his departure beyond thanking him for his service. The proposed scheme involved creating a $20 billion commercial subsidiary and selling up to a 20% stake to private investors for about $4.2 billion. It faced strong opposition from UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation and CONCACAF before Infantino withdrew it on 31 July.

Lamour’s departure follows the resignation of Carlos Cordeiro, a senior adviser to Infantino who also opposed the proposal. The controversy has intensified pressure on Infantino ahead of FIFA’s 2027 presidential election, with several football bodies now questioning his leadership. Despite the growing criticism, Infantino continues to have support from several football confederations, including those in Africa and South America. The latest departure, however, highlights the deepening divisions within FIFA over the president’s leadership and commercial strategy.