FIFA shelves Forward Enterprise project after opposition

FIFA has shelved its proposed Forward Enterprise project after concluding that the initiative had become too divisive among its member associations. The decision followed consultations with member associations, the FIFA Council, confederations and other stakeholders. FIFA said the proposal no longer served its original goal of strengthening football worldwide.

Why did FIFA shelve the Forward Enterprise project?

FIFA shelved the Forward Enterprise project because consultations showed it had created divisions among member associations and other stakeholders. The governing body said the proposal no longer aligned with its objective of uniting football and supporting development, despite the backing it had received.

The governing body said the project was originally designed to strengthen FIFA member associations and expand support for football, particularly in countries that need the most assistance. The proposal aimed to provide a stronger foundation for football development while ensuring member associations remained central to the consultation process.

However, after reviewing feedback from member associations, the FIFA Council, confederations and wider stakeholders, FIFA concluded that the divisions surrounding the proposal outweighed its intended benefits. As a result, the project will not move forward.

What happens after the Forward Enterprise project was withdrawn?

FIFA said its priority remains to unite the global football community and continue growing the sport worldwide. The organisation plans to bring stakeholders back together in the coming days and weeks to discuss the next steps.

The governing body added that future discussions will focus on supporting football development, particularly in countries that need greater assistance. FIFA said its long-term objective remains unchanged, to strengthen member associations and promote the growth of the game across the world.