UEFA seeks discovery from FIFA, Infantino and Thrive over botched $20bn World Cup deal

UEFA has initiated a discovery proceeding in a New York court against FIFA, its president Gianni Infantino, and the investment firm Thrive Capital, seeking information for a criminal complaint to be filed in Switzerland. The move stems from a failed $20 billion World Cup commercial-rights transaction that would have given Thrive, founded by Joshua Kushner, a 20% share in a newly created company for $4.2 billion. UEFA’s filing claims the price undervalued FIFA’s commercial assets and was approved in a rushed meeting with only a handful of officials.

The complaint describes the deal as a scheme for Infantino and a close circle to secure a permanent profit stake, harming FIFA and its members. After widespread criticism from multiple confederations, the plan was withdrawn, and UEFA warned it could boycott FIFA events unless assurances were provided. The discovery request is intended to supply Swiss prosecutors with the evidence needed to pursue potential charges.