Trump Denies Knowledge of FIFA World Cup Commercial Rights Sale Linked to Joshua Kushner Investors
Former US president Donald Trump says he never discussed a proposed FIFA World Cup commercial rights sale with the football governing body, rejecting reports linking the deal to investors tied to Joshua Kushner.
Donald Trump on Friday denied having any discussions about the FIFA World Cup commercial rights sale, saying he had not spoken with FIFA president Gianni Infantino on the matter. His remarks came after reports that a group of private investors, expected to be led by a company founded by Joshua Kushner, was being considered to acquire a portion of the tournament’s commercial rights. The development has prompted questions about the governance of FIFA partnerships and the public profile of those involved.
Trump’s denial of talks with FIFA
Trump said he had not spoken with Gianni Infantino about offers to sell stakes in World Cup commercial rights. He told reporters that he “never discussed” the proposal with the FIFA president and denied any personal involvement in negotiations.
The former president’s statement followed press reports that suggested a private investor consortium might be offered a share of the World Cup’s marketing and media revenues. Trump’s denial aims to distance him from any direct role in the proposed transaction.
Investor group tied to Joshua Kushner
FIFA sources cited in media accounts identified an investor group that would be led by a company founded by Joshua Kushner. Those reports described the consortium as composed of private investors seeking to buy a stake in commercial rights associated with the World Cup.
Joshua Kushner is the brother of Jared Kushner, who served as a senior adviser in the Trump administration. The family connections prompted heightened attention because of the political and business ties that overlap in this case.
FIFA’s proposed commercial rights plan
The reports indicate FIFA explored selling part of the World Cup’s commercial rights to external investors as a means of monetizing future income streams. Under such a structure, private capital would secure a share of sponsorship, broadcasting, or hospitality revenues in exchange for upfront payments or financing.
FIFA has in past years pursued commercial partnerships to expand revenue but selling equity-style stakes in core tournament rights would mark a significant shift. Such a move would require detailed contractual safeguards to protect host nations, sponsors and broadcasting agreements already in place.
Public ties between Trump and Infantino
Observers noted a series of public interactions between Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino over recent years, which have been highlighted in media coverage. Those visible meetings contributed to scrutiny when the investor reports emerged.
While friendships or public rapport between leaders of states and sports bodies are not unusual, the overlap of political figures and commercial deals can raise questions about transparency. Critics say clear disclosures are essential when high-profile personalities are connected to potential commercial partners.
Potential scrutiny and regulatory concerns
A partial sale of World Cup commercial rights to private investors would likely draw attention from regulators, national associations and existing commercial partners. Concerns include long-term control of marketing assets, revenue sharing with host countries, and the integrity of competitive bidding processes.
FIFA and any potential investor would be expected to provide detailed disclosures and submit to governance reviews to address conflict-of-interest claims. Political links and prior relationships between individuals involved would increase pressure for independent oversight and public clarification.
FIFA’s next steps, according to those familiar with the matter, may include formal statements to clarify whether a specific offer has been tabled and what governance safeguards would apply. Trump’s public denial narrows speculation about his personal involvement but leaves open broader questions about how FIFA plans to manage its commercial strategy going forward.