FIFA has ended its working relationship with Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour, less than three weeks after he publicly criticised President Gianni Infantino over a controversial plan to commercialise FIFA’s tournament operations. FIFA confirmed that Lamour’s departure took effect on August 17, 2026, after nearly two years in the role.
The dispute centred on the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a planned FIFA-owned subsidiary that would bring together commercial and event operations, including broadcasting, sponsorship, licensing, ticketing and hospitality rights. FIFA had proposed retaining an 80% controlling stake while potentially selling up to 20% to investors to raise funds for football development.
Lamour strongly opposed the proposal, reportedly describing it as a project driven by one person and accusing FIFA’s leadership of misleading staff. He also warned that the plan could compromise FIFA’s long-term interests and said he understood that speaking out could cost him his job.
The proposal eventually faced significant opposition from football authorities and stakeholders, including UEFA and European clubs, before FIFA abandoned the plan. The controversy has also increased pressure on Infantino ahead of FIFA’s 2027 presidential election.
Lamour joined FIFA as COO in November 2024 after previously serving as Deputy General Secretary at UEFA. FIFA thanked him for his two years of service but did not provide further details about the reasons behind his departure.
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