FIFA has officially announced the departure of Kevin Lamour, who served as the Chief Operating Officer. His exit follows his public criticism of President Gianni Infantino’s proposal to sell a stake in FIFA’s tournament business, which includes the prestigious World Cup.
A spokesperson for FIFA confirmed the end of Lamour’s tenure, expressing gratitude for his two years of service and wishing him success in his future endeavors. The decision to part ways was reached after discussions between Lamour and FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom.
Lamour had openly opposed the proposal, alleging that FIFA staff were misled and denouncing it as a unilateral project. He emphasized that their primary duty is to serve football and not the personal agenda of any individual.
Carlos Cordeiro, also a critic of Infantino’s plan and a senior adviser, resigned in protest, labeling the proposal as detrimental to football. Lamour had joined FIFA in November 2024 and was previously associated with Infantino’s inner circle during the 2016 presidential campaign.
The developments surrounding Lamour’s departure and the controversy over Infantino’s World Cup sell-off plan have sparked significant discussion within the soccer community, with implications for the future of FIFA’s commercial interests.