FIFA Removes COO Kevin Lamour After He Criticizes Infantino's World Cup Investment Plan
FIFA has announced the departure of its Chief Operating Officer, Kevin Lamour, following clashes with President Gianni Infantino over plans to involve private investors in the World Cup. Lamour’s exit came shortly after he publicly condemned Infantino’s controversial strategy to commercialize part of football’s flagship tournament.
Internal Conflict Triggers Senior Executive Exit
The leadership at FIFA faced turmoil as Lamour stepped down on August 17, 2026, amid escalating tensions with Infantino. Their deteriorating working relationship reached a breaking point after Lamour criticized the governing body's transparency concerning the proposed financial restructuring of the World Cup.
A spokesperson for FIFA stated: "FIFA can confirm that the working relationship between FIFA and Kevin Lamour as FIFA’s Chief Operating Officer has ended on 17 August 2026. We thank Kevin for his two years of service and wish him well in the future. No further comment will be made."
Lamour Accuses FIFA Leadership of Deception
The fallout began when Lamour spoke to the Associated Press in late July, raising serious doubts about the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) project. He alleged that Infantino had misled staff about the plan’s impact, which involved selling stakes in the World Cup to private investors.
"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 told the AP. He acknowledged the risks of speaking out, adding, "If that means I lose my job, then so be it."
The $4.2 Billion Investment Proposal Falls Apart
At the center of the controversy was a proposal to sell a 20 percent stake in a new commercial entity responsible for organizing major FIFA events like the World Cup and Club World Cups. The plan aimed to raise $4.2 billion through private investment but faced strong opposition from stakeholders worried about losing control over football’s most valuable asset.
Although the deal was eventually abandoned, the internal divisions it caused remained significant.
Lamour’s Departure Ends a Long-Standing Partnership
Lamour brought extensive experience to FIFA, having worked closely with Infantino during their time at UEFA. Starting in 2007, he climbed the ranks to deputy general secretary before joining FIFA as COO in November 2024.
During his tenure, Lamour managed complex relationships and led major infrastructure initiatives. His sudden resignation marks the end of nearly twenty years of professional collaboration across Europe’s and the world’s top football organizations.
FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom informed staff of Lamour’s departure via email, highlighting that the decision followed careful consideration and expressing appreciation for Lamour’s contributions to daily operations.
