UEFA accused FIFA of putting football’s ‘soul’ up for sale|@SpainIsFootball|X
All 55 countries of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) decided to boycott FIFA competitions if President Gianni Infantino proceeds with plans to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.
The immediate impact of the decision threatens upcoming events, starting with the Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland on 5 September, where 6 of the 24 qualified teams represent UEFA. The boycott could also affect the 2030 World Cup.
What happened?
FIFA unveiled plans this week to create a new $20 billion subsidiary to manage the World Cup and other major tournaments, while selling up to 20% of the business to outside investors.
The investors could include Joshua Kushner, the brother of President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner.
The plan faced immediate pushback, with UEFA accusing FIFA of putting football’s “soul” up for sale.
The opposition signals rapidly eroding confidence in Infantino’s leadership and his most significant challenge since taking office in 2016.