Fifa’s Commercial Strategy Revealed: More Tournaments and Debt, No Mention of Women’s Football

Fifa’s newly revealed sales presentation outlines a commercial strategy focused on expanding the number of global football tournaments, increasing ticket prices, and taking on additional debt. Notably, the document makes no mention of plans to support or promote the women’s game.

The 25-page sales deck, titled “Fifa Forward Enterprise Member Materials” and produced by JP Morgan Reference, was obtained by the Guardian. It aims to persuade Fifa members to approve the sale of the World Cup’s commercial rights by highlighting financial growth through a greater volume of tournaments worldwide. The document also proposes the creation of a new company to oversee Fifa’s commercial operations, with 20% ownership to be sold to US investor Joshua Kushner.

This initiative represents a significant shift in Fifa’s commercial approach, emphasizing increased revenues through higher ticket prices and debt financing. The strategy appears designed to capitalize on football’s global popularity by expanding competitive events, which could affect the international football calendar and stakeholder interests.

However, the absence of any mention of the women’s game in the sales materials raises questions about Fifa’s commitment to gender equality and the development of women’s football at a commercial level. This omission may draw criticism given the growing global interest and investment in women’s football in recent years.

Looking ahead, Fifa members will assess the proposed commercial structure and ownership changes. The approval process will determine whether these plans proceed, potentially reshaping Fifa’s financial and operational landscape in the coming years. Meanwhile, the football community will watch closely for any future commitments toward the women’s game, which remains a vital and rapidly expanding part of the sport.

For further details on Fifa’s commercial strategy and the full sales deck, visit the original report on the Guardian website.