Egyptian FA welcomes FIFA’s withdrawal of Forward Enterprise proposal, reaffirms support for Infantino

The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has welcomed FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s decision to withdraw the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative, saying the move demonstrates the importance of dialogue and consultation within the global football community.

In an official statement released under the leadership of EFA President Engineer Hani Abu Rida, the Egyptian FA praised FIFA’s decision to halt the proposal following feedback and concerns raised by member associations.

“The Egyptian Football Association, under the presidency of Engineer Hani Abu Rida, commends the decision by FIFA President Gianni Infantino to withdraw the FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal, in light of the observations and opinions received by FIFA from its member national associations,” the statement read.

The proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise was designed as a commercial subsidiary that would oversee FIFA’s major competitions, including the World Cup, with private investors allowed to acquire minority, non-controlling stakes.

However, the plan attracted debate among football stakeholders, with some national associations expressing concerns over governance, transparency and the potential impact on the structure of international football.

The EFA said the withdrawal of the proposal reflects strong leadership from FIFA and a willingness to listen to its member associations.

“True leadership is demonstrated through listening to member associations and making decisions that serve the supreme interest of global football,” the association stated.

The Egyptian FA further described the decision as a step towards maintaining unity within the football family, highlighting the importance of cooperation, consultation and respect for different opinions among FIFA’s members.

“This decision reflects a commitment to preserving the unity of the international football family and embodies an approach based on dialogue, consultation, and respect for diverse viewpoints within the FIFA framework,” the statement added.

The North African football governing body also expressed confidence in FIFA’s leadership and reaffirmed its commitment to working with the world football governing body to achieve shared objectives.

“The Egyptian Football Association renews its full confidence in the leadership of Mr. Gianni Infantino and reaffirms its ongoing support for all initiatives that contribute to serving national associations and strengthening the future of global football,” it concluded.

The EFA’s position comes amid wider discussions over FIFA’s commercial direction and the future management of its flagship competitions, with member associations continuing to play a key role in shaping decisions affecting world football.