Mattias Grafstrom addresses FIFA staff following Gianni Infantino's failed plan

FIFA secretary-general Mattias Grafstrom has reached out to staff members amidst the internal turmoil sparked by the collapse of the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) project. In an internal memo, he urged composure, noting that while the past week has been challenging, the institution's mission remains the priority.

Grafstrom, who ranks second only to Gianni Infantino, addressed the scrapped FFE proposal—which sought to sell stakes in football competitions to private investors—as a "sad and reproachable series of events." He assured employees that they would be shielded from the current political context surrounding the failed initiative.

The FFE scheme, which was drawn up by Infantino without broad internal consultation, has faced mounting criticism. Chief operating officer Kevin Lamour previously stated that FIFA staff had been "deceived" by the project, describing it as the work of "one person." The opposition has also led to the resignation of senior advisor Carlos Cordeiro.

Pressure is intensifying outside the organization as well. UEFA has officially called for Infantino’s departure, citing a loss of confidence in his leadership. Meanwhile, the English Football Association is expected to follow the Football Association of Wales in withdrawing their letter of support for the president’s re-election next year.