October 28 – FIFA has confirmed reports in the Swiss media by admitting the CEO of its much-touted €128 million museum is leaving, a clear cost-cutting move amid reports of poor visitor numbers since it opened in February.
FIFA says it has agreed terms with Stefan Jost “to part company by the end of October 2016 due to contrasting views on future plans for the FIFA World Football Museum.”
The museum opening was the first official duty of FIFA president Gianni Infantino two days after his election in February when he described it as “the place where football will be lived and breathed.” But it is clear the general footballing public do not share that view.
The project on three floors, sports bar and apartments for rent – was a pet favourite of former FIFA president Sepp Blatter. It was projected to attract 250,000 visitors annually but has fallen way short of predictions in the first few months of its refurbishment. FIFA also spent $27 million buying a neighbouring hotel.
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