Emma Hayes weighs in on FIFA's plan to sell a minority stake

On July 30, Emma Hayes appeared on one outlet's SportsCenter to comment on FIFA's consideration of selling a minority equity stake to private investors. While she admitted she lacks full details of the proposal, Hayes highlighted that the World Cup’s greatest value lies in its universal accessibility. She pointed out that each edition now costs billions, with the latest men's tournament expanding to 48 teams across three nations.

Hayes called for a careful budgeting approach that does not sacrifice the sport’s openness. Governing bodies, including CONCACAF and UEFA, have publicly criticized the plan, with UEFA threatening to boycott FIFA events until the sale is abandoned. Hayes will lead the United States at the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.