UEFA threatens FIFA World Cup boycott over Infantino-led private investment plan

UEFA has warned that its 55 member nations will boycott FIFA competitions if president Gianni Infantino pushes ahead with plans to sell ownership stakes in the World Cup to private investors.

The stance follows an emergency meeting of Europe’s governing body and is the strongest opposition yet to a proposal that has sparked widespread outrage across world football.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin chaired the virtual meeting, and it reportedly ended with unanimous backing for a boycott if FIFA refuses to abandon the proposal.

Representatives from more than 40 national associations addressed the meeting. The mood was one of total unanimity and lots of anger over FIFA’s approach.

In a strongly worded statement (via the Times), UEFA declared that ‘the World Cup is not for sale’555.

They accused FIFA of attempting to force national associations into accepting the proposal through intimidation rather than consultation.

UEFA argued that allowing private investors to acquire ownership interests in the World Cup would change the sport, placing commercial returns ahead of football’s long-term interests.

The governing body warned that future decisions on tournament formats, scheduling and the international calendar could become driven by shareholder demands.

European nations make up many of the world’s strongest men’s and women’s teams, meaning any boycott would severely diminish the value of FIFA’s flagship competitions.

Spain and Portugal, scheduled to co-host the 2030 men’s World Cup alongside Morocco, could even refuse to participate in a tournament they are due to stage.

The Football Association also threw its weight behind UEFA’s position, insisting it stands alongside its European counterparts and opposing FIFA’s plans.

Resistance is also growing outside Europe.

Asian Football Confederation president Sheikh Salman criticised FIFA for failing to consult continental bodies, while officials within CONCACAF have also voiced concerns over the proposal.

However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) released a statement that did not denounce the idea.

Infantino has reportedly given FIFA’s 211 member associations until September 19 to approve the scheme.

Under the proposal, associations would gain access to a $10 billion funding package, with up to $40 million available per member nation.

Those rejecting the plan would receive funding through FIFA’s existing development programme.

Critics argue FIFA has massive financial reserves and should not need to sell stakes in its most prestigious competitions to fund football’s development.