Gianni Infantino has announced he will stand for re-election as FIFA president in 2027, confirming his candidacy at the organisation’s annual Congress.

“I want to confirm to you that I will be candidate for the FIFA election of president next year,” Infantino said at the Congress.

He also told FIFA’s 211 member associations they would receive €2.3 billion in distributions over the next four years, adding that funding would increase by 20 per cent in the 2027–2030 cycle.

Support and eligibility

Support for his candidacy has already been declared by the Asian Football Confederation, Confederation of African Football and CONMEBOL, which together represent almost half of FIFA’s voting members.

Infantino, who has led FIFA since 2016 following the exit of Sepp Blatter, is eligible to stand again after FIFA determined that his initial 2016–2019 period does not count as a full term under its three-term limit, allowing him to seek a further mandate in 2027.

 

UEFA men’s club competition media rights to exceed $5 billion from 2027

Annual media-rights revenue for UEFA’s men’s club competitions is projected to surpass $5 billion annually from 2027, following a series of new broadcast agreements across international markets.

UEFA and the European Football Clubs joint venture UC3 has secured deals for 19 territories in the Americas and Europe, generating $910m for the 2027–31 cycle, according to The Athletic. The total represents an increase of almost 40 per cent compared with equivalent agreements in the current cycle.

Broadcasters including Paramount+, Canal+, Disney, ESPN, DAZN and Viaplay were awarded rights across multiple territories. UC3 said the process attracted “strong interest from a broad range of media organisations”.

Markets still to be concluded

The latest agreements take already contracted annual media-rights revenue beyond $3.8 billion, with sales processes still to conclude in Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Sources cited by The Athletic said UC3 has reached around 75 per cent of its overall target.

The competitions currently generate about $4.2 billion per year, with more than 90 per cent distributed to participating clubs.

 

US consortium completes Sheffield Wednesday takeover

Sheffield Wednesday have confirmed that a US-based group, Arise Capital Partners, have completed a takeover of the club, ending Dejphon Chansiri’s ownership.

The consortium is led by American executive David Storch and includes his son Michael Storch and Tom Costin, who is involved in multi-club investment platform Blue Crow Sports Group.

The English Football League said it would not impose a 15-point deduction following the club’s exit from administration, stating it had been “an
incredibly challenging and complex situation for all parties”.

Ownership details and conditions

As part of the agreement, Sheffield Wednesday will remain under budget restrictions for the next two seasons as a condition of continued membership in the EFL, although the club are permitted to sign new players.

The takeover was completed before a 1 May deadline, ahead of regulatory changes that will transfer oversight of ownership tests to an independent football regulator.

 

Dutch FA warn court ruling could disrupt Eredivisie competition

The Royal Dutch Football Association has warned that a court ruling due on Monday could disrupt the organisation of the Eredivisie, following a legal challenge brought by NAC Breda over player eligibility.

The case, being heard in Utrecht, relates to NAC’s complaint about Go Ahead Eagles defender Dean James, who featured in a match between the clubs on 15 March that Go Ahead won 6-0. NAC argue the player should not have been eligible to play.

According to Dutch media reports, NAC claim James lost his Dutch nationality after accepting an offer to represent Indonesia internationally in March 2025, meaning he would have required a work permit.

Fear chaos

The KNVB’s competition board had previously rejected NAC’s appeal and allowed the result to stand, despite being informed of the eligibility issue. NAC have since taken the matter to a civil court in Utrecht.

NAC state their claim relates only to the specific match and are seeking to have the result declared invalid and replayed, while the KNVB maintain that any broader legal precedent could affect multiple fixtures across the league.

“The impact of any ruling could throw Dutch football into chaos,” the KNVB said.

 

Botafogo post €50 million loss and rising liabilities despite record revenue

Botafogo reported a net loss of €50 million in their 2025 financial accounts, despite generating record revenue of €112 million during the period.

The deficit followed increased cost pressures, including an €18 million rise in player amortisation, which outweighed a €10 million reduction in wage expenses. Revenue was supported by player trading activity.

The club generated around €49 million in profit on player sales, marking a sharp increase on the previous year where they reached less than €9 million. Transfers involving Luiz Henrique and Thiago Almada were identified as key contributors.

Liabilities pressure and audit concerns

The accounts also show €189 million in outstanding payments related to player acquisitions, forming the largest share of total liabilities of around €340 million. Short-term obligations due within 12 months reached €231 million, including €151 million owed to suppliers and other creditors.

Independent auditor BDO declined to issue an opinion on the accounts, citing “limitations of scope and lack of sufficient evidence”, while the report also points to negative working capital of €163 million and ongoing financial pressure linked to transfer-related commitments.

 

Las Vegas investor submits offer to buy and relocate Whitecaps

Major League Soccer has received a formal bid from a Las Vegas-based investor to acquire the Vancouver Whitecaps and relocate the club, according to The Athletic.

The prospective buyer is Grant Gustavson, who has submitted the offer to the league with plans to move the franchise to Las Vegas. Details of the proposed transaction, including valuation and timeline, have not been disclosed.

In a statement, Gustavson’s group said: “An investor group, led by Grant Gustavson, submitted a bid for consideration to the MLS League Office… we are refraining from sharing details of our proposal.”

The Athletic reported that the bid includes a commitment to privately finance a football-specific stadium in Las Vegas, with the option of using a temporary venue during construction. MLS owners have also discussed the potential relocation in recent meetings.

Local response

The development has prompted renewed efforts in Vancouver to secure the club’s future, with political leaders and supporters urging stakeholders to find a solution to keep the team in the city.

The Whitecaps said they have held discussions with more than 100 potential ownership groups over the past 16 months but have yet to receive an offer that would keep the club in Vancouver, while MLS confirmed further talks with local authorities are planned.

Nasser al-Khelaïfi has criticised LFP Media’s handling of international rights as Ligue 1+ subscriptions decline, raising concerns over revenue generation at a Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) board meeting on Wednesday.

The Paris Saint-Germain president said the league’s commercial arm was not doing enough to develop overseas markets, according to L'Équipe. International rights for Ligue 1 are estimated at around €130 million this season.

He argued that stronger commercial efforts abroad were needed to increase income, particularly as domestic broadcast revenues remain under pressure. The issue was discussed alongside wider concerns over how television revenues are allocated among clubs.

Broadcasting revenue outlook

Clubs were also presented with projections showing domestic media income for 2026/27 could remain broadly unchanged despite the end of agreements with beIN Media Group and DAZN, while Ligue 1+ subscriptions are estimated at around one million.

Responding to the criticism, LFP Media said it had resumed international sales in 2024/25 and generated €126 million last season, rising to €137 million in the current campaign, adding that it is close to finalising a three-year rights deal in Spain.
 

MLS secure up to $200 million KKR investment for Next Pro overhaul

Major League Soccer (MLS) has agreed a deal with private equity firm KKR that could see up to $200 million invested into MLS Next Pro, reshaping the league’s development tier and commercial structure.

MLS and KKR said they have created a joint venture, Hometown Soccer Holdings, which will take control of commercial operations across most of the 30-team competition. These include ticketing, sponsorship, media rights, venue agreements and other revenue streams, while clubs retain responsibility for sporting operations.

According to Sportico, the investment will be deployed in stages and may vary depending on club participation. Commissioner Don Garber said the partnership would accelerate player development, adding: “It is a real accelerant for our entire development program.”

New operating structure

The new entity will be led by chief executive Tom Glick and president Chris Klein, following approval from MLS club owners earlier this year. The arrangement allows clubs to opt into the commercial platform for their Next Pro teams.

MLS launched Next Pro in 2022 to bridge academy and first-team football and expand its presence in new markets. The league is now exploring relocating and rebranding teams to reach untapped fan bases, alongside potential real estate developments linked to venues.
 

Serie A president urges political alignment to address revenue gaps

Serie A president Ezio Simonelli has called for closer cooperation with the Italian government to address structural and financial challenges facing the league.

Speaking at a parliamentary hearing, Simonelli said Italian football risks falling behind its European peers due to stagnant domestic broadcast revenues and underdeveloped stadium infrastructure, which continues to limit matchday income.

He pointed to a widening gap between clubs’ stadium earnings in Italy and abroad, adding that outdated venues reduce both revenue potential and fan experience. “We can only emerge from this crisis if politics and Serie A sit on the same side of the table,” Simonelli said.

Broadcast constraints

Simonelli said Serie A have not experienced the same increase in media rights values as other major European leagues because telecom companies - businesses that provide mobile, broadband and TV services - are not allowed to take part in the bidding process.

He added that, in other markets, their involvement has increased competition for rights and contributed to higher broadcast revenues.
 

CAF backs Infantino re-election for FIFA presidency in 2027

The Confederation of African Football has announced unanimous support for the re-election of Gianni Infantino as president of FIFA in 2027.

CAF said its member associations agreed the position during a meeting held in Vancouver on the eve of FIFA’s 76th Congress. The mandate in question would cover the 2027 to 2031 cycle.

Infantino, elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2019 and 2023, has not formally declared his candidacy. However, FIFA statutes allow him to stand again after his first term was classified as incomplete following the departure of his predecessor, Sepp Blatter.

Growing support

Support from CAF’s 54 member associations follows a similar position taken by CONMEBOL, which represents 10 national federations.

The next FIFA presidential election is scheduled for 2027, when the organisation’s 211 member associations will vote at the 77th Congress. The date and host location for that congress are expected to be confirmed during the current meeting in Vancouver.

FIFA will increase the total financial distribution to teams at the upcoming World Cup by 15 per cent, raising the overall allocation to €745 million, according to a FIFA statement.

The decision follows requests from national associations concerned about rising costs linked to the tournament. FIFA said the increase would be funded through the competition’s commercial performance.

Preparation funding for qualified teams will rise from €1.3 million to €2.1 million. In addition, the payment for qualifying for the tournament will increase from €7.7 million to €8.5 million.

Higher payments linked to rising costs

FIFA has also allocated an additional €13.7 million to cover expenses related to federation delegations, alongside an increase in ticket allocations for participating teams.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said the organisation’s financial position enabled the higher distribution, stating: “FIFA is proud to be in its most solid financial position ever, enabling us to help all our Member Associations in an unprecedented way.”

West Ham appoint Karim Virani as interim CEO

West Ham United have appointed Karim Virani as interim chief executive officer following the departure of Karren Brady earlier this month after 16 years in a senior role.

The club confirmed the appointment in a statement, with Virani returning after previously working at West Ham between 2015 and 2020, where he led digital, marketing and commercial operations.

Virani said his immediate focus would be on supporting head coach Nuno Espírito Santo and the team. “I am determined to do everything I can to help the club achieve our objectives… nothing will distract us from that”.

Leadership changes

Virani will take responsibility for the club’s day-to-day operations during the interim period, including oversight of commercial activity following the recent departure of executive director Nathan Thompson.

He has held roles across sport, technology, financial services, telecommunications and broadcast, and most recently was a board member at non-league side Hashtag United after a spell as commercial director at Rangers between 2023 and 2025.

FIFA consider rule requiring U21 homegrown player on pitch

FIFA is set to consult on a proposal that would require clubs to field at least one homegrown under-21 player at all times during matches.

World football’s governing body said its council had unanimously approved the launch of a consultation process involving relevant stakeholders, with the outcome due to be presented to the FIFA Council within the next year.

According to The Athletic, discussions among the six confederation presidents this week were described as positive, although no final decision has been taken. One source said the talks were intended “to aid player development”.

Consultation to define criteria

The consultation will also consider how a homegrown player should be defined under the proposal and is expected to focus on both leading clubs and middle-ranking member associations.

FIFA’s discussions come alongside existing domestic regulations, including in the Premier League, where clubs are limited to a maximum of 17 non-homegrown players in a 25-man squad, but are not required to use such players during matches.

Los Angeles FC offer to sell Swiss club Grasshopper after fan protests

Los Angeles FC (LAFC) have said they are open to selling the Swiss club Grasshopper Club Zürich following supporter protests, according to a statement published on the club’s official website.

The MLS franchise, which acquired a majority stake in January 2024, said it would consider a partial or full sale if it ensured the club’s long-term sustainability. The move follows unrest among fans, including protests at a recent home match and incidents after a Swiss Cup semi-final defeat.

Grasshopper have remained near the bottom of the Swiss Super League since the takeover and are currently 11th in the 12-team table with four rounds remaining. In the statement, LAFC said: “Recent protests have called for us to leave the club… we are open to discussions regarding a partial or full sale.”

Financial pressures persist

The owners said operating costs continue to exceed revenues, adding that the club relies on external funding to compete. They warned that without continued investment, the club could not operate as a professional organisation.

Grasshopper, who share the Letzigrund stadium with city rivals FC Zurich, are facing a potential relegation play-off for a second consecutive season as results on the pitch remain unchanged.

The Deutsche Fussball-Liga (DFL) have agreed a €100 million investment from Adidas to support the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga, according to a DFL statement.

The German sportswear company will provide funding aimed at supporting the leagues’ central marketing activities, with allocation to be determined by the DFL’s executive board in agreement with its 36 member clubs.

DFL president Hans-Joachim Watzke said: “Adidas and the DFL will jointly contribute to a positive future for German professional football… The financing model offers an important option for investing in the growth of the Bundesliga and 2.Bundesliga in economically dynamic times.”

Match ball agreement extended

Adidas have also extended their existing agreement to supply the official match ball for both divisions, with the deal now running until 2034.

The company had previously been set to begin supplying match balls from the 2026/27 season under an agreement due to expire in 2030, but the revised terms lengthen the partnership beyond its original term.

US fund buys 16 per cent stake in Benfica

A US investment fund has agreed to acquire a 16.38 per cent stake in SL Benfica SAD, through a vehicle backed by Entrepreneur Equity Partners and other investors, including Francesca Bodie, becoming the club’s second-largest shareholder, according to a Benfica press release.

The deal follows a previous US investment after Lenore Sports Partners acquired a minority stake last year, extending the presence of US capital in the club.

The shares are being sold by José António dos Santos and entities linked to his family business, Grupo Valouro, with completion subject to shareholder approval and expected by the end of July.

Bond increase approved

Separately, Benfica SAD said it has increased the size of its 2026–2031 bond to €65 million after approval from Portugal’s securities regulator CMVM.

The club raised the offer from an initial €40 million, with a fixed gross interest rate of 4.65 per cent, and said the issue would exceed the €50 million bond maturing in May 2026 while keeping projected net debt broadly stable.

Brighton outline plans for £80 million purpose-built women’s stadium

Brighton & Hove Albion are planning to build a purpose-built women’s football stadium costing £75-80 million. The project would be the first of its kind in Europe and is targeted to open for the 2030/31 season.

The club said in a statement that the proposed venue would be located at Bennett’s Field, next to the Amex Stadium, with a minimum capacity of 10,000. The development would include a bridge walkway connecting the new ground to the existing stadium.

Zoe Johnson, the club’s managing director for women’s and girls’ football, said: “The prospect of a bespoke stadium, built exclusively for women's players, staff and supporters, is incredibly exciting,” The club added that the stadium is intended to provide a permanent home for the women’s team and support long-term fan growth.

Aimed at families

Plans include changing rooms, recovery areas and a pitch designed to elite standards, alongside matchday features aimed at families and first-time attendees. These include baby changing areas, breastfeeding rooms and designated space for prams.

Brighton currently play most of their Women’s Super League (WSL) matches at Crawley Town’s Broadfield Stadium, around 20 miles away, although some fixtures are held at the Amex Stadium. The new venue could also be used for academy and development matches.

MLS owners discuss potential relocation of Vancouver Whitecaps to Las Vegas

A group of Major League Soccer (MLS) owners have discussed the potential relocation of Vancouver Whitecaps, including a possible move to Las Vegas, according to a report from The Athletic.

A special committee met earlier this month to assess the club’s future, with Las Vegas identified as the leading option among markets considered. Other cities, including Phoenix, have also attracted interest from potential investors.

The Whitecaps confirmed ongoing uncertainty around the club’s future, stating: “Since December 2024, ownership has prioritised finding a buyer committed to keeping the team in Vancouver … no solution has been found.”

Options under review

The club’s ownership is actively seeking a sale while working on a new stadium solution in Vancouver, with their lease at BC Place due to expire at the end of the year. The absence of a local ownership group has increased the possibility of relocation.

MLS said it would continue to support efforts to secure the club’s future in Vancouver but acknowledged structural challenges linked to stadium economics, scheduling and limited commercial backing. The league added it would consider all options, including interest from other markets, subject to approval from club owners.

The referee designator for Serie A and Serie B, Gianluca Rocchi, is under investigation by prosecutors in Milan over alleged sporting fraud linked to VAR protocol and referee appointments. Authorities have requested that Rocchi attend questioning next week, with the case examining whether selections favoured Inter Milan in several matches.

Rocchi has suspended himself from his role as head of the National Referees’ Committee (CAN), while colleague Andrea Gervasoni has also stepped aside. Five fixtures from the past two seasons are under scrutiny, with three including Inter. No clubs or players are under investigation.

In a statement, Rocchi said: “I have decided to suspend myself… to allow the legal proceedings to run their course properly; I am certain I will emerge from this unscathed.” He added that the decision was taken with the referees’ association to ensure operations continue without disruption.

Investigation widens

According to Calcio e Finanza, Rocchi and Gervasoni are among a group of five individuals under investigation, which also include three VAR operators.

The case was opened more than a year ago and could prompt a review of a previously closed FIGC inquiry on the matter.
 

Norwegian FA president backs ethics complaint against Infantino

The president of the Norwegian Football Association, Lise Klaveness, has backed an ethics complaint against Gianni Infantino over his role in awarding FIFA’s Peace Prize to Donald Trump.

Klaveness said she supports a formal complaint submitted to FIFA’s ethics committee, which alleges breaches of the organisation’s rules on political neutrality. The complaint relates to Infantino’s relationship with Trump and the creation of the Peace Prize.

According to The Athletic, she criticised the process behind the award, stating: “We don’t think it’s part of FIFA’s mandate to give such a prize.” Klaveness also called for the abolition of the prize.

Complaint filed by campaign group

The complaint was submitted in December by FairSquare, which campaigns on labour and human rights issues, and has asked FIFA to investigate what it describes as repeated breaches of neutrality rules. FIFA has not disclosed how the Peace Prize winner was selected or who was involved in the decision.

Klaveness said the case should be assessed through FIFA’s internal processes and handled transparently, while Infantino has defended the decision to award Trump and said the US president “objectively…deserves it”.
 

Fiorentina offer €55 million for stadium redevelopment under conditions

ACF Fiorentina have submitted an expression of interest to the City of Florence to invest €55 million in the second phase of the Stadio Artemio Franchi renovation, according to a statement from the club. The stadium project has been under way since it was first announced in 2020.

The proposal, signed by owner Rocco Commisso, would cover the remaining funding required to complete the project, which has faced a financing gap following the withdrawal of previously allocated public funds.

The club said their investment would depend on meeting specific requirements, including cost oversight, defined construction timelines and the handover of the construction site after the first phase of works.

Euro 2032 bid

Italian sports minister Andrea Abodi visited the stadium site on Monday with mayor Sara Funaro and club officials, as authorities reviewed progress on the ongoing first phase of construction.

The first phase is scheduled for completion on 16 February 2027, with final testing concluding by 30 April, while the full redevelopment is planned to finish in 2029 ahead of use from the 2029/30 season, as Florence prepares to submit its Euro 2032 host city bid.
 

Levski Sofia agree takeover and unveil €120 million stadium project

Bulgarian side PFC Levski Sofia have signed an agreement for a change in ownership that will see Atanas Bostandzhiev become the club’s new majority shareholder, while also presenting plans for a new stadium, the club have revealed. The deal for the controlling stake remains subject to final completion.

Majority owner since 2020, Nasko Sirakov, will remain as president but will no longer hold shares. The club said the process included legal and financial due diligence by both parties, alongside work on a joint development strategy.

Sirakov said: “Today I step down as a shareholder with the understanding that Levski has stability, direction and a foundation on which to build.”

Stadium plans

Levski and architectural and engineering company IPA presented the stadium concept at a press conference, outlining design, financing and expected outcomes. The project envisages a full redevelopment into a multifunctional venue meeting UEFA Category IV requirements. The investment is estimated at €120 million, with construction expected to begin in spring 2027.

Levski Sofia are on track to win the Bulgarian first division this season with an 11-point lead and five games remaining, which would qualify them for the Champions League qualifying round next season.

John Textor has been temporarily removed from the leadership of Botafogo’s SAF by a decision of the Tribunal Arbitral of the Fundação Getúlio Vargas, following a request linked to disputes with Eagle Bidco, as reported by ge Globo. The measure takes immediate effect and will be reviewed on 29 April after submissions from the parties.

The tribunal said recent actions by the American could harm shareholders and supporters. It cited two decisions: a request to open judicial reorganisation proceedings without shareholder approval, including a move to suspend Eagle’s voting rights, and the signing of a share purchase agreement transferring interests linked to Eagle Bidco to a Cayman Islands entity.

According to the tribunal, these steps breached governance rules, stating they were taken “without deliberation at a shareholders’ meeting” and in violation of applicable norms.

Botafogo criticise ruling

Botafogo’s SAF criticised the ruling in a statement, arguing the decision exceeded the tribunal’s remit and interfered in matters reserved for shareholders. It said the removal had been ordered without a specific request from the parties involved.

Durcesio Mello has been named interim director general to ensure operational continuity while the arbitration process continues.

 

FIFA proposes limit of one overseas league match per season

FIFA is proposing new rules that would allow domestic leagues to stage one top-flight match abroad each season under a revised approval process. The plans, developed by a working group, would introduce new conditions for relocating competitive fixtures to foreign countries, according to The Guardian.

The framework would also cap the number of matches hosted by any one country at five per season involving teams from overseas leagues. Requests would require approval from the clubs’ national associations, their confederations, the host nation’s association and confederation, before being submitted to FIFA, which would retain a veto.

FIFA could reject proposals on grounds including player welfare, with concerns over travel and workload. The governing body would also require assurances on revenue redistribution and measures to ensure supporters can attend.

International competitions

Separate but similar protocols have also been drafted to govern the creation of new international competitions involving clubs or national teams from different continents.

Under these proposals, domestic leagues would not be formally consulted, raising the prospect of competitions being approved without their consent.

 

Orlegi Sports sells Atlas FC as group reduces multi-club ownership

Orlegi Sports has completed the sale of Atlas FC to Grupo Prodi, reducing the Mexican group’s multi-club ownership structure, according to a statement from the company. The deal is reported to be worth more than €188 million.

The transaction ends Orlegi’s ownership of two Liga MX clubs. Multi-club ownership inside Mexican football has faced increasing scrutiny, with the model now to be phased out.

Orlegi chairman Alejandro Irarragorri said the club would continue its development under new ownership, stating: “under the leadership of José Miguel Bejos and his team, the club will continue its evolution … in benefit of its fans, Jalisco and Mexican football”.

Bejos set to oversee club

Grupo Prodi, which is linked to Spanish industrial company Duro Felguera, becomes Atlas’ new majority shareholder. José Miguel Bejos, who owns Pericos de Puebla in Mexican baseball, is expected to oversee the club.

Atlas won two Liga MX titles during Orlegi’s ownership. The sale leaves the group with majority stakes in Sporting Gijon in Spain and Santos Laguna in Mexico.

 

West Bromwich Albion handed two-point deduction for P&S breach

West Bromwich Albion have been deducted two points after the English Football League (EFL) ruled the club breached its Profitability and Sustainability rules, as confirmed in a statement by EFL.

The EFL said its Club Financial Reporting Unit had referred the case to an independent panel, which found the club exceeded the permitted loss threshold for the three-year period ending in the 2024/25 season.

Following a hearing, the panel confirmed the breach and applied the sanction with immediate effect to the Championship table for the 2025/26 campaign.

Appeal process open

The EFL said West Bromwich Albion may appeal the decision within 14 days once the written reasons have been issued, with any appeal to be heard within 28 days of submission.

The points deduction is four points fewer than the one received by Leicester City in February. Despite losing two points, West Brom have secured another season in the Championship with one game remaining.

 

Chelsea confident on UEFA compliance and reject potential ban option

Chelsea FC are confident they will comply with UEFA financial rules even if they miss out on Champions League qualification, and do not plan to accept a voluntary one-year ban to mitigate future risks, according to The Times.

AC Milan and Juventus FC previously agreed to one-year suspensions after qualifying for UEFA's Europa League and Conference League, effectively resetting their position under financial monitoring rules and removing the risk of a future Champions League ban.

However, sources told The Times that Chelsea have “stress-tested” their settlement agreement and believe they would remain compliant without Champions League income. One source said the club “would never” opt to take a one-year ban if they were competing in a lower-tier European competition.

“Serious risk” of breach

Chelsea are due to hold discussions with UEFA's Club Financial Control Body in the coming weeks regarding their settlement, which includes financial targets through to 2028/29. The agreement allows for further sanctions, including a competition ban, in the event of non-compliance.

External experts cited by The Times said there remains a “serious risk” of breach due to high expenditure and the absence of Champions League income. They also noted UEFA's stricter accounting rules, which exclude certain asset sales, could continue to affect Chelsea’s reported losses over the monitoring period.

 

FIFA set to increase 2026 World Cup prize fund after concerns

FIFA has agreed in principle to increase prize money and participation payments for the 2026 World Cup, with final details to be approved at a council meeting in Vancouver this week.

The decision follows concerns raised by several national associations about the cost of competing in the United States, where travel, operations and tax obligations are expected to be high, according to The Guardian.

FIFA had announced a prize fund of $727 million in December, with each of the 48 teams guaranteed at least $10.5 million and the winners set to receive $50 million, but those figures are now expected to rise after recent discussions. A FIFA spokesperson said it is “in discussions with associations around the world to increase available revenues”.

Under review

Development funding distributed to Fifa’s 211 member associations is also set to increase beyond the $2.7 billion previously projected for the next four-year cycle.

Each association had been due to receive $5 million, with the six confederations allocated $60 million each, but those payments are also under review as part of the revised financial plans.

A US representative of President Donald Trump has said he asked both the White House and FIFA to replace Iran with Italy at this summer’s World Cup, according to the Financial Times.

Paolo Zampolli told the newspaper he had suggested to FIFA president Gianni Infantino that Italy should take Iran’s place despite failing to qualify for the tournament, which begins in June in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

“I confirm I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup… With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion,” Zampolli said.

Italy and FIFA respond

Italy’s sports minister Andrea Abodi rejected the suggestion, saying it was “not possible” and “not appropriate”, and adding that qualification for the World Cup is decided on the pitch.

BBC Sport reported that the governing body has no plans to replace Iran with Italy.
 

Lyon ordered to pay €20.8 million to Botafogo in debt ruling

Olympique Lyonnais have been ordered by a Brazilian court to pay €20.8 million to Botafogo over unpaid debts linked to former owner John Textor, according to RMC Sport.

The ruling follows a complaint filed by the Rio de Janeiro club in early April seeking repayment of more than €125 million. A judge has issued an initial decision covering 122 million reais (€20.8 million), based on documents seen by AFP and cited by RMC Sport.

Botafogo claim the amount relates to loans granted to Lyon when both clubs were under Textor’s Eagle Football Holdings structure. Lyon can request to pay 30 per cent of the sum upfront and settle the remainder in six instalments, while the club has three days to appeal the decision.

New legal case

Separately, Botafogo have requested the opening of judicial reorganisation proceedings asking for a temporary suspension of Eagle’s voting rights as majority shareholder, accusing the group of blocking new investment.

The development follows the appointment of Cork Gully as administrators of Eagle Football Holdings Bidco, majority shareholder of Botafogo and Olympique Lyonnais, in March, removing John Textor from control and placing the holding company under restructuring oversight.
 

Tottenham hold talks with Sebastian Kehl over co-sporting role

Tottenham Hotspur have held talks with Sebastian Kehl about a potential appointment as co-sporting director, with the German identified as a leading candidate for the position.

The club are seeking a replacement following Fabio Paratici’s departure to Fiorentina in February, and are considering a structure in which a new hire would work alongside current sporting director Johan Lange.

According to The Athletic, no formal offer has yet been made to Kehl, who is currently without a role after leaving Borussia Dortmund in March. He is yet to decide on his next move, despite ongoing discussions.

Co-director structure

Tottenham are exploring a model that mirrors a previous arrangement between Lange and Paratici, who briefly shared responsibilities following the latter’s return to the club in October before his exit.

Kehl, a former Dortmund player who later moved into a series of off-field roles, has also been linked with a vacancy at Hamburg. However, he is understood to be weighing his options and has not committed to an immediate return to football.
 

HSV launch Supporters Trust targeting €16 million for stadium investment

Hamburger SV have launched a fan-backed “Supporters Trust” scheme aimed at raising €16 million in an initial funding phase for stadium-related investment, the club announced in a statement.

The Bundesliga club plan to offer shares priced at €887 each, with an initial tranche of 18,870 units reflecting the club’s founding year. A founding assembly is scheduled for 5 May, with sales to begin following regulatory approval.

Club president Henrik Köncke said members will have priority access during the first ten days, before the offer is extended to season ticket holders and other supporters. “In the first ten days after the launch, HSV members will initially have the opportunity to participate,” he said.

Structure and rollout

The funds raised are restricted to infrastructure spending, with the club stating they will be used to improve the stadium experience. Plans include increasing capacity at the Volksparkstadion from 57,000 to 60,000 seats.

Köncke said that, subject to approvals, expansion work could begin immediately, with capacity expected to exceed 58,000 during the next season. The club added that the initiative was backed by members in a previous vote and has support from figures including Horst Hrubesch and head coach Merlin Polzin.
 

AFE launches new international footballers’ union after FIFPRO split

The Spanish Footballers’ Association (AFE) has launched a new international union, the International Association of Footballers (AIF), following their departure from global body FIFPRO.

The organisation was presented in Madrid by AFE president David Aganzo, who said the new body will represent more than 30,000 players and focus on their role in decision-making and the protection of their rights.

AFE left FIFPRO citing concerns over governance, with Aganzo stating during the launch that “footballers today are losing strength, losing rights and losing guarantees”, adding the union would seek to restore FIFA-backed financial protections.

FIFPRO questions legitimacy

Women’s football is set to be a central focus of AIF, including issues related to equality, working conditions and maternity protections, according to the organisation’s leadership.

FIFPRO responded in a statement, questioning the legitimacy of the new body and saying its own structure is supported by 70 national unions representing over 60,000 players, with formal recognition from the European Union and the International Labour Organization.

Botafogo have been banned by FIFA from registering new players for three transfer windows after failing to pay a fee owed to Bulgarian side Ludogorets Razgrad for the transfer of Rwan Cruz.

The sanction prevents the Brazilian club from signing reinforcements while the debt remains outstanding. The case relates to the 2025 transfer of the forward from the Bulgarian side, according to O Globo.

Rwan Cruz joined Botafogo for €8 million and made 14 appearances, scoring twice, before being loaned to Real Salt Lake and later returning to Ludogorets.

Botafogo restrictions

The FIFA ban follows a separate domestic sanction imposed by Brazil’s National Chamber for Dispute Resolution, which also restricts Botafogo from registering players for six months.

In January, a Rio de Janeiro court prohibited Botafogo from selling players and assets until the club demonstrates full compliance with the court’s instructions after finding the club had failed to comply with a prior order requiring disclosure of such transactions.
 

Flamengo report €57.5 million profit as revenue reaches €269 million

Flamengo have reported a net profit of €57.5 million after posting revenue of €269 million in 2025, according to the club’s financial accounts, reflecting growth in commercial income and matchday revenue.

Flamengo said the results were supported by prize money from competitions, commercial expansion, player trading and stadium operations. Net debt fell to €30 million from €59 million in 2024.

The accounts also showed EBITDA of €105 million.

Player trading

Flamengo generated €89 million from player sales in 2025, up from €19 million a year earlier.

Investment in player registrations reached €109 million, compared with €74.5 million in 2024, with acquisitions including Carrascal, Emerson Royal and Juninho.
 

NWSL awards Columbus expansion team for $205 million fee

The National Women's Soccer League has awarded an expansion team to Columbus, Ohio, for a $205 million fee, according to Sportico. The league confirmed the addition of its 18th franchise on Tuesday, with the team set to begin play in 2028.

The club will be owned by Haslam Sports Group, alongside the Edwards family and Nationwide. The expansion fee exceeds recent NWSL deals and is higher than the league’s reported average team valuation of $184 million.

The new team will play at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, home of MLS side Columbus Crew, with plans for a dedicated training facility and stadium upgrades.

Expansion fees rising

Columbus’ fee is $40 million higher than the amount paid by AMB Sports + Entertainment for an Atlanta expansion team also due to start in 2028. Recent entrants including Bay FC and Boston Legacy FC paid just over $50 million, while Denver Summit FC paid $110 million.

Local authorities have approved $50 million in public funding to support infrastructure and facility improvements.
 

Evangelos Marinakis has placed his Nottingham Forest shares into a blind trust for a second successive year due to the possibility of the club and Olympiacos competing in the same European competition next season.

The move was completed before UEFA’s 1 March deadline, with Nottingham Forest seeking to comply with regulations that prevent clubs under the same ownership from participating in the same competition.

According to The Telegraph, the arrangement is intended as a temporary measure, with Marinakis remaining committed to the club he acquired in 2017.

Champions League qualification

Forest could face a conflict if they win the Europa League and both they and Olympiacos qualify for the Champions League, as UEFA rules prohibit shared ownership in such cases.

Last year, Forest also adjusted ownership structures before the same deadline, following scrutiny around multi-club models and a separate dispute involving Crystal Palace and Lyon over European eligibility.

Cremonese appoint Deutsche Bank to explore potential club sale

US Cremonese have appointed Deutsche Bank to explore a potential sale of the club, with owner Giovanni Arvedi seeking new investors, according to Calcio e Finanza.

The German bank will advise through a division focused on football transactions, while sports consultancy Tifosy is also expected to support the process.

Interest has emerged from prospective buyers, including former Credit Suisse banker Jamie Welch and Italian private equity investor Ignazio Castiglioni. Welch has previous involvement in football ownership, having acquired Yverdon-Sport FC after a failed attempt to buy Calcio Lecco 1912.

Foreign ownership trends

Deutsche Bank has previously worked on transactions in Italian football, including the 2025 sale of Hellas Verona to Presidio Investors. The involvement of external advisers reflects increasing institutional activity around club ownership changes in Serie A.

Arvedi, who has backed Cremonese since 2007 through his Finarvedi group, is assessing options as the club faces financial losses and uncertainty over its league status. Cremonese are currently 17th in Serie A, one point above the relegation zone with five matches remaining.

Norwegian football secures record €75 million per year domestic rights deals

Commercial broadcaster TV 2, alongside Amedia and Schibsted, have secured domestic media rights to Norwegian football for the 2029–34 cycle, covering both men’s and women’s competitions.

The agreements include the top-flight Eliteserien and Toppserien, as well as lower divisions and the national cup. The combined value of the deals is €74.7 million per year across five seasons, according to The Norwegian Football Association (NFF).

That figure exceeds the current 2023–28 cycle, which averages €68.4 million annually, and marks a new high for domestic football rights in Norway. TV 2 will retain coverage of the top tiers, while Amedia takes control of several lower divisions and selected competitions.

Broadcast split confirmed

From 2029, Schibsted will hold rights to the men’s and women’s domestic cups, age-grade international matches and the men’s under-21 team, while Amedia will also show the women’s first division and men’s second and third tiers.

Jens Haugland, CEO of Norsk Toppfotball, said: “The sale is also a confirmation of the value development we have seen in our leagues. The stadiums are filled, the commitment around the clubs is growing, and the leagues are reaching more people.”

RWDM Brussels obtain postponement in bankruptcy case

RWDM have secured a postponement in the bankruptcy proceedings brought against the club, with a Brussels court delaying its ruling until 1 June. The case, initiated by former chief executive Gauthier Ganaye, had been due to be heard on Monday morning.

The decision gives the Brussels club, who are owned by John Textor, additional time to demonstrate they have the financial resources to continue operating. According to Sudinfo, potential investors are in discussions over a possible takeover.

Ganaye filed the petition over unpaid severance following his departure in May 2024. “RWDM owe him severance pay … which has still not been paid,” Sudinfo reported, referring to a ruling in his favour issued in summer 2025.

Relegation dispute

The postponement comes amid ongoing legal disputes involving the club, including a separate case with the Belgian Pro League over their relegation status.

RWDM were relegated despite finishing above three academy teams, as league rules restrict the demotion of under-23 sides unless replacements are promoted. The club ended the season 12 points clear of Club Brugge NXT, who occupy a relegation place.