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 FIFA’s tournament business, which includes the prestigious World Cup. The separation was confirmed by FIFA on Monday, with a spokesperson expressing gratitude for Lamour’s two years of service and wishing him well in his future endeavors. FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom notified staff and Council members of Lamour’s exit through a letter, stating that both parties mutually agreed to part ways after recent discussions, as reported by Sky News.
Lamour had voiced his disapproval of the proposal last month, alleging that FIFA’s staff had been misled about the plan, which he described as the brainchild of a single individual. He emphasized that FIFA’s core mission is to serve football and not the personal agenda of an individual who mistakenly perceives himself as the embodiment of FIFA rather than its servant.
His critique echoed sentiments expressed by Carlos Cordeiro, a senior adviser to President Infantino, who resigned in protest against the proposal, labeling it detrimental to the sport. Lamour became part of FIFA in November 2024, previously being associated with Infantino’s inner circle during the campaign for the presidency in 2016.