FIFA 'Weighs Moving Its Multibillion-dollar Headquarters From Zurich To The US'

FIFA, soccer's international governing body, is reportedly considering moving from Zurich to the United States in an effort to expand its global profile and grow its billion dollar business.

According to The New York Times, FIFA is considering locations on both coasts and is weighing a number of factors, such as work visas and tax breaks. The offices would be focused on sponsorships and broadcast rights, which rank among the most lucrative in sports. In 2018, for instance, FIFA reported revenue of $4.6 billion.

Such a move would be part of a trend for FIFA, which has been in Zurich since 1932, but began decentralizing in June by opening another office in Paris. 

'Our aim of making football truly global also means that FIFA itself needs to have a more balanced and global organizational set up,' President Gianni Infantino said when the Paris office opened.

By moving to the US, FIFA could build its commercial operations in a wealthy, well-populated country that has traditionally resisted the game known to the rest of the world as 'football.' Furthermore, a move would allow FIFA to be more involved in preparations for the 2026 World Cup, which will be played across North America.

The US offers FIFA entree to new sponsors and Wall Street investors. Also, a move to the US might help to promote women's soccer, which had been dominated by the Americans until their disappointing bronze medal finish at the Tokyo Olympics.