EFA backs Infantino after withdrawal of FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal

Ahram Online , Sunday 2 Aug 2026

The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) on Sunday welcomed FIFA President Gianni Infantino's decision to withdraw the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative, saying the move reflected the governing body's commitment to listening to its member associations and safeguarding the interests of global football.

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Photo courtesy of EFA

 

The EFA, headed by Hany Abo Rida, said the decision came in response to comments and views submitted by FIFA's national member associations.

In a statement, the EFA said "true leadership" is demonstrated by listening to member associations and taking decisions that serve the higher interests of world football.

The association said the withdrawal underscored FIFA's commitment to preserving the unity of the international football community and reflected an approach based on dialogue, consultation and respect for differing views within the organisation.

The EFA also expressed confidence in FIFA and its member associations' ability to continue working together in a spirit of cooperation and partnership to achieve shared objectives and advance the development of football worldwide.

FIFA announced the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) in July 2026 as a commercial subsidiary that would consolidate the governing body's broadcast, sponsorship, ticketing and licensing operations.

The plan also envisaged allowing minority private investment to increase development funding for member associations from $8 million to $20 million during the 2027–2030 cycle and finance global football infrastructure projects. However, the proposal drew opposition from several confederations, including UEFA and CONCACAF, over concerns about commercialisation and a lack of prior consultation.

Infantino withdrew the proposal on 31 July, saying it had created divisions that ran counter to FIFA's mission of uniting world football.

The Egyptian body reaffirmed its full confidence in Infantino's leadership and pledged its continued support for initiatives aimed at serving national associations and strengthening the future of global football.

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