FIFA parts ways with COO Kevin Lamour after World Cup investor dispute
FIFA confirms COO Kevin Lamour's exit on August 17, following reported criticism of plans to sell World Cup stakes to investors.
FIFA has confirmed the departure of its Chief Operating Officer, Kevin Lamour, effective August 17, 2026. The announcement follows reports that Lamour had publicly disagreed with FIFA President Gianni Infantino's proposal to sell a portion of World Cup rights to private investors.
In a statement to Sky News, FIFA said: "FIFA can confirm that the working relationship between FIFA and Kevin Lamour as FIFA's Chief Operating Officer has ended on 17 August 2026." The brief statement did not elaborate on the reasons behind the separation.
The development comes amid growing scrutiny of FIFA's financial strategies under Infantino, particularly plans to monetise parts of the World Cup through external investment. Lamour's reported criticism of that approach appears to have been a decisive factor in the organisation's decision.
Lamour's exit marks a significant shake-up in FIFA's senior leadership, though the governing body has not indicated whether a successor has been identified or when one might be appointed.