Morocco FA backs Infantino’s withdrawal of FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has welcomed FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s decision to withdraw the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) project, describing the move as a step that prioritises unity within the global football community.

In a statement released on Saturday, FRMF President Fouzi Lekjaa praised Infantino’s decision to abandon the proposal, which had generated widespread debate among FIFA’s member associations over plans to allow private investors to acquire minority stakes in a new commercial subsidiary responsible for managing FIFA’s flagship competitions.

“The progress achieved in recent years through FIFA’s development programmes, particularly in Africa, represents a valuable achievement that must be preserved for the benefit of all member associations,” the federation said.

The Moroccan football governing body acknowledged the significance of the proposed reform but stressed that maintaining unity among FIFA’s 211 member associations should take precedence over any divisions the project may have created.

According to the statement, Lekjaa described Infantino’s decision as a wise one because it places greater emphasis on cohesion and collaboration within world football through a participatory approach to the sport’s continued development.

The FRMF also reiterated its unwavering support for the FIFA president and his efforts to promote football development across the globe.

“On this occasion, the FRMF President reiterated his support for FIFA President Mr Gianni Infantino and for all initiatives aimed at promoting the development of football worldwide,” the statement added.

The federation concluded by underlining that the unity of world football remains the guiding principle behind decisions affecting the global game.

The FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal sought to establish a commercial subsidiary that would oversee FIFA’s major competitions, including the FIFA World Cup, while opening the door for external investors to purchase minority, non-controlling stakes.

However, following consultations with member associations, confederations, the FIFA Council and other stakeholders, Infantino announced that the proposal would be withdrawn after it became evident that it did not command majority support.

Morocco’s endorsement adds to the reactions from football stakeholders following FIFA’s decision, with the North African nation emphasising that preserving unity among member associations is essential to the continued growth and development of football worldwide.