FIFA Removes COO Kevin Lamour After Criticizing Infantino’s World Cup Investment Plans
FIFA has parted ways with its chief operating officer, Kevin Lamour, following his outspoken opposition to president Gianni Infantino's controversial plan to sell stakes of the World Cup to private investors.
Internal Conflict Triggers Leadership Shake-Up
The departure of Lamour, confirmed on August 17, 2026, came after a breakdown in his relationship with Infantino and escalating tensions within FIFA's leadership. This exit follows public accusations by Lamour targeting the governing body’s transparency and governance concerning the now-defunct FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) initiative.
A FIFA spokesperson stated: "FIFA confirms that the working relationship with Kevin Lamour as Chief Operating Officer ended on 17 August 2026. We thank Kevin for his two years of service and wish him well in the future. No further comments will be made."
Allegations of Misleading Staff Over World Cup Investment
Lamour openly criticized the FFE project in an interview with the Associated Press in late July. He claimed that Infantino had misled employees about the project's consequences, particularly the plan to offer private investors stakes in the World Cup.
"It is the project of one person. Not only must this project not go ahead … but the time has now come for football political leaders to ask themselves the right questions and make the right decisions," Lamour said.
These remarks challenged Infantino's control and provoked an unworkable situation within the executive team. Lamour accepted the risks involved, adding: "If that means I lose my job, then so be it."
The Collapse of the $4.2 Billion World Cup Investment Deal
In July, FIFA announced plans to sell a 20% stake in a new commercial entity meant to oversee major events like the World Cup and Club World Cups. This move was designed to generate funding through private investment but faced fierce opposition from football stakeholders concerned about losing control over the sport’s flagship event.
The proposal was eventually dropped amid backlash, but the internal fallout at FIFA had already taken its toll.
Lamour’s Career and Legacy End Amid Discord
Before joining FIFA in November 2024, Lamour worked closely with Infantino at UEFA, starting in 2007 and rising to deputy general secretary. As FIFA COO, he managed complex relationships and key infrastructure projects but leaves following a bitter dispute over governance and transparency.
Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom informed FIFA staff via email that the decision followed careful consideration and expressed appreciation for Lamour’s contributions to daily operations.
