The proposal could see FIFA’s 211 member associations receive substantially increased funding during the 2027–2030 cycle. It follows a joint request from UEFA and CONCACAF for each association to receive at least $10 million, potentially amounting to $2.11 billion in total.
In a letter to the heads of FIFA’s six continental confederations, Infantino said he would support the highest level of additional funding that could be delivered responsibly, subject to proper governance, transparency and financial scrutiny.
“I will not prejudge the amount,” Infantino wrote, according to Al Jazeera’s report.
He added that any distribution would need to be supported by financial evidence and approved through FIFA’s established governance processes. No final amount has been agreed.
FIFA Council to consider proposal in October
The proposed funding increase is expected to be discussed at the FIFA Council meeting on 15 October 2026.
Infantino has instructed FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström to consolidate submissions into an assessment for the council to consider. The review will examine how much additional funding can be distributed while maintaining responsible financial management.
UEFA and CONCACAF have called for each of FIFA’s 211 member associations to receive at least $10 million over the next four-year cycle. The proposal would draw on FIFA’s financial reserves, reported to be around $6 billion.
The proposed payout would provide additional resources to national associations for football development, although the final allocation and conditions have yet to be determined.
Re-election bid comes amid FIFA governance dispute
Infantino announced in May 2026 that he would seek another term as FIFA president, with the election scheduled for March 2027.
The funding discussions come amid opposition to his proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) initiative, which would have involved selling a stake in a new entity linked to the commercial and operational rights of FIFA competitions.
The proposal was withdrawn following criticism from several football confederations over consultation and governance. Infantino has defended the initiative, saying it was intended to generate additional investment in football.
The latest funding proposal has been viewed in media reports as part of the wider political context surrounding Infantino’s bid for another term. However, the additional payments remain subject to review and approval, and FIFA has not confirmed that every member association will receive $10 million.
The FIFA Council’s October meeting is expected to provide further clarity on the proposed distribution and the process for deciding the final amount.