Zurich, July 30 (SANA)FIFAPresidentGianni Infantinodefended plans to establish a commercial subsidiary that would oversee the organization’s business operations, saying the proposal is intended to generate greater financial benefits for football worldwide.

The proposal has attracted criticism since details emerged earlier this week about the possible sale of stakes in FIFA’s premier competitions.

Infantino said the initiative is voluntary and would require approval from FIFA’s 211 member associations and the FIFA Council before it could be implemented.

The company would manage the commercial operations of FIFA competitions, including sponsorship, media rights, licensing and future business initiatives.

Infantino said the plan would help expand football’s commercial value while ensuring that the sport itself remains unchanged.