BFF to discuss FIFA’s Forward Enterprise proposal

Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) president Tabith Awal on Wednesday confirmed that FIFA has formally communicated a proposal under which member associations could receive up to $40 million if they back a plan to sell stakes in the governing body's major competitions, including the FIFA World Cup.

"I have received the communication from FIFA and will discuss the matter in our EC (executive committee) prior to finalising a decision," Tabith said, in reply to The Daily Star’s WhatsApp message.

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According to multiple international media reports, FIFA has informed all its member associations that each could access up to $40 million if they approve the proposal, with associations required to sign up by September 19.

According to The Times, FIFA president Gianni Infantino told member associations that a $10 billion funding package would become available if they endorsed the plan.

In a letter seen by the British newspaper, Infantino stressed that the decision rested with each individual association.

"Should you wish to proceed, this $10 billion package will become available as of January 1, 2027, ushering in the next phase of our journey together," Infantino wrote.

"Should you wish to retain the status quo and reject this proposal, we still have our planned expansion of the Forward Programme (development funds) of $2.7 billion as previously presented.

"In total, for the upcoming cycle starting as of January 1, 2027, each member association will have the possibility of accessing up to $40 million under this proposal."

However, the proposal has drawn criticism from many quarters. The Times reported that sources opposed to the plan described it as "pure bribery."

European football's governing body, UEFA, said the World Cup was not "an asset to trade," while the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) said it had not been consulted on the proposal.