Isha Johansen rejected FIFA stake sale proposal in seconds: “My decision was already made”

Former FIFA Council member and Sierra Leone Football Association president Isha Johansen has revealed that she immediately rejected the controversial proposal to sell a stake in FIFA competitions, saying she did not need to hear the full details before making her decision.

The Sierra Leonean football administrator told Sky News that her response was an instant and firm refusal when she first became aware of the plan, which involved the creation of a new commercial entity, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), to oversee and potentially sell minority stakes linked to FIFA competitions.

“As soon as I heard about it, it only took me three seconds to respond. My decision was already made: it was a categorical no. I didn’t even feel the need to hear the details,” Johansen said.

The proposal, championed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, was designed to attract private investment into a new commercial structure that would manage revenue streams connected to major FIFA events, including the FIFA World Cup.

The plan faced widespread criticism from football stakeholders who raised concerns over transparency, governance and the increasing commercialisation of the sport.

FIFA argued that the initiative would have generated significant additional revenue for its 211 member associations, with more funds potentially available for football development projects around the world.

However, critics questioned whether private investors should have a financial stake in competitions that represent the global game.

Johansen, who served on the FIFA Council from 2016 to 2023, acknowledged the potential financial benefits for football, particularly in developing regions, but maintained that protecting the integrity and independence of the game was more important.

The former FIFA official’s comments come after the governing body eventually abandoned the proposal following strong opposition from several football associations and confederations.

UEFA and other stakeholders had expressed concerns about the lack of consultation and the possible impact on football governance.

The decision to scrap the FIFA Forward Enterprise plan has intensified discussions about the future direction of world football, with calls for greater transparency and stronger involvement of member associations in major decisions affecting the sport.

For Johansen, the issue was clear from the beginning — while financial growth remains important, she believes football’s traditional values must remain protected.