FIFA’s Chief Operating Officer, Kevin Lamour, has departed from the organization following his public criticism of President Gianni Infantino’s proposal to sell a share in its tournament business, including the prestigious World Cup. The separation was confirmed by FIFA on Monday, expressing gratitude for Lamour’s two years of service and wishing him success in his future endeavors. The decision to part ways was mutually agreed upon after discussions between Lamour and FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom, as reported by Sky News.
Lamour had previously voiced his disapproval of the proposal, stating that FIFA staff had been misled and labeling it as a personal project rather than serving the interests of football. His remarks came shortly after another key figure, Carlos Cordeiro, resigned in protest against Infantino’s plan, describing it as detrimental to the sport. Lamour, who joined FIFA in November 2024 and was part of Infantino’s inner circle during the president’s election campaign in 2016, has now left the organization amid the controversy surrounding the sell-off plan.
The departure of Lamour and the backlash against Infantino’s proposal have sparked discussions and debates within the soccer community, with concerns raised about the potential impact on the future of the World Cup. Infantino’s decision to involve private investors in FIFA’s commercial interests has drawn criticism and led to significant reactions from various stakeholders in the sport.