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 of its tournament business, which includes the prestigious World Cup. The separation was confirmed by a FIFA spokesperson, acknowledging Lamour’s two-year tenure and wishing him success in his future endeavors without further elaboration.
The decision for Lamour’s departure was reached after mutual discussions, as communicated by FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom to staff and Council members in a recent letter. Lamour had expressed discontent with the proposal, asserting that FIFA employees were misled and denouncing it as the personal agenda of a single individual rather than serving the interests of football.
Notably, Lamour’s objections echoed those of Carlos Cordeiro, a senior adviser to Infantino, who resigned in protest against the plan, labeling it detrimental to the sport. Lamour had joined FIFA in November 2024, having previously been a part of Infantino’s close circle that supported his presidential campaign in 2016.
