The international football body is working with JPMorgan to raise billions by selling a minority stake to external investors, capitalizing on World Cup profits.
2:17 PM
FIFA is planning to sell a significant minority stake in a newly created commercial entity valued at approximately $20 billion, according to people familiar with the matter. The move comes as the Switzerland-based nonprofit organization seeks to capitalize on strong profits generated by this summer's World Cup.
The international football federation is working with JPMorgan bankers to structure the deal, which would bring external investors into the new entity. The stake being offered is approximately 20 percent, according to sources with knowledge of the negotiations.
Joshua Kushner, a technology sector investor, is in negotiations to lead the investment through his fund Thrive Eternal, multiple sources said. Kushner's brother, Jared Kushner, is married to Ivanka Trump, daughter of U.S. President Donald Trump.
The commercial entity represents FIFA's effort to monetize its operations and brand beyond traditional tournament revenues. The organization has generated elevated profits from the recent World Cup, providing the financial foundation for this capital-raising initiative.
JPMorgan's involvement as financial advisor underscores the scale and complexity of the transaction. The bank is tasked with identifying and bringing in institutional investors willing to acquire a stake in the newly formed commercial vehicle.
The deal structure allows FIFA to retain majority control of the entity while accessing significant capital from external investors. The $20 billion valuation reflects the commercial value FIFA attributes to its global football operations and brand rights.
Details regarding the timeline for completing the transaction and the specific commercial operations to be housed within the new entity were not disclosed by sources familiar with the negotiations.
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