The Dutch FA has criticized FIFA’s proposed $20 billion investment plan, calling it a step too far as UEFA members prepare for an emergency meeting.
The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) has become the latest governing body to oppose FIFA’s controversial proposal to create a $20 billion commercial subsidiary that would oversee the FIFA World Cup and other major tournaments.
FIFA announced earlier this week that it plans to establish FIFA Forward Enterprise, a new company that would manage the commercial and event operations of its competitions while offering up to a 20 percent stake to selected external investors.
Statement on behalf of UEFA and its 55 National Associations
— UEFA (@UEFA) July 30, 2026
The governing body has also proposed financial incentives, with each member association reportedly set to receive €40 million if they approve the project.
The proposal has sparked widespread criticism across European football, with UEFA accusing FIFA of commercializing the sport at the expense of its traditions. In a strongly worded statement, UEFA argued that football’s governance and identity should never be treated as assets for private investment.
“The soul and governance of football are not assets to trade—especially with zero transparency as to who gains financially. None of us are the owners of football. It is not FIFA’s to sell,” UEFA said.
KNVB Says FIFA Has Crossed the Line
Speaking to the Dutch Media, KNVB president Frank Paauw echoed UEFA’s concerns and made it clear that the Netherlands does not support FIFA’s plans.
“For the KNVB, this marks a line that has been reached and crossed,” Paauw said, stressing that the issue is about protecting football’s principles rather than accepting additional funding.
He added that while the proposed financial package could be attractive to some federations, it would not influence the Dutch FA’s position. “The money is not as important to us as it is to others, without sounding too decadent. To us, it’s about principles,” he explained.
All UEFA member associations have agreed to boycott the World Cup if Infantino goes ahead with his plan to sell shares of the tournament to private investors, including a controlling stake to a company he’d inevitably become the head of.
Absolutely the right call from the KNVB.
— Clockwork Oranje (@ClockworkOranje) July 30, 2026
Paauw also confirmed that all 55 UEFA member associations are scheduled to meet in an emergency session on Friday to discuss FIFA’s proposal and determine a collective response. The meeting is expected to play a crucial role in shaping European football’s next steps as opposition to the investment plan continues to grow.
