FIFA’s Chief Operating Officer, Kevin Lamour, has officially departed from the organization, as confirmed by FIFA on Monday. This move comes after Lamour publicly criticized President Gianni Infantino’s proposal to sell a stake in FIFA’s tournament business, which includes the prestigious World Cup.
A FIFA spokesperson announced that the working relationship between Lamour and FIFA ended on August 17, 2026. Lamour had been serving as FIFA’s Chief Operating Officer for two years, and FIFA expressed gratitude for his service, wishing him success in his future endeavors.
The decision for Lamour’s departure was mutual, according to FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom, who informed staff and Council members of the development in a letter. Lamour had expressed concerns about the proposal, stating that FIFA staff had been misled and emphasizing that the initiative seemed driven by the ambitions of one individual rather than the best interests of football.
Carlos Cordeiro, a senior adviser to Infantino, had resigned in protest against the sell-off plan, echoing Lamour’s sentiments that it was not in the sport’s best interest. Lamour had joined FIFA in November 2024, previously being part of Infantino’s inner circle during his presidential campaign in 2016.