FIFA’s Chief Operating Officer, Kevin Lamour, has parted ways with the organization after criticizing President Gianni Infantino’s proposal to sell a stake in FIFA’s tournament business, which includes the prestigious World Cup. The decision was confirmed by FIFA on Monday, with a spokesperson expressing gratitude for Lamour’s two years of service and wishing him success in his future endeavors. FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom notified staff and Council members of Lamour’s departure, stating that both parties mutually agreed to separate following recent discussions.
Lamour had openly voiced his opposition to the proposal, alleging that FIFA staff had been misled and labeling the initiative as the brainchild of a single individual. He emphasized that the primary objective should be to serve football and not cater to the personal agenda of someone who believes they embody FIFA rather than serving it.
The departure of Lamour came shortly after Carlos Cordeiro, a senior adviser to Infantino, resigned in protest against the sell-off plan, denouncing it as detrimental to football. Lamour had joined FIFA in November 2024 and was previously associated with Infantino’s inner circle during the campaign for his presidency in 2016.
