Key Takeaways
- UEFA has vowed to boycott the World Cup if FIFA proceeds with its private investment proposal.
- The decision was made after UEFA's 55 member associations unanimously agreed to protest against the plan.
- FIFA and its president, Gianni Infantino, are under pressure to abandon their plans.
UEFA has announced it will boycott the World Cup if FIFA pushes ahead with a private investor proposal. The decision was made after UEFA's 55 member associations voted unanimously against the plan.
In a statement, UEFA stated that no national teams from its member countries would participate in any FIFA competition until the proposal is abandoned and binding assurances are given that FIFA will not open its governance or competitions to private ownership again.
UEFA's stance comes after FIFA and its president, Gianni Infantino, proposed selling stakes in a tournament-operating subsidiary to outside investors. This move has raised concerns among UEFA members who believe it could compromise the integrity of football.
The decision by UEFA is significant as it represents a united front against what they perceive as a threat to their control over international football competitions.
FIFA and its president have not yet commented on UEFA's stance, but sources close to FIFA say that discussions are ongoing and that both parties remain committed to finding a mutually acceptable solution.
UEFA’s move could have far-reaching implications for the upcoming World Cup and other major tournaments. The decision highlights the growing tension between UEFA and FIFA over governance and control of international football.
The vote by UEFA's member associations was seen as a strong statement, with many expressing concerns that private investment could lead to a loss of autonomy in the sport.
UEFA’s president, Aleksander Češtin, stated: 'We are committed to protecting the values and integrity of our sport. FIFA must respect these principles or face the consequences.'
No UEFA national teams will participate in any FIFA competition for so long as these proposals remain alive, unless this proposal has been abandoned in its entirety and binding assurances have been given that FIFA will never again open its governance or competitions to private ownership.
UEFA, European football's governing body
The World Cup is not for sale.
UEFA, 55 member associations
