UEFA is reportedly considering a boycott of the World Cup in response to a leaked FIFA proposal that would involve selling stakes in the competition to private investors. The plan, which could be worth approximately $15 billion, has drawn strong criticism from UEFA, which has described the move as crossing a line for football's governing bodies.
According to reports, FIFA President Gianni Infantino is exploring the creation of a new company to manage parts of the tournament and is potentially positioned to lead this entity after his FIFA tenure ends in 2031, a role that could yield over $50 million annually. JPMorgan is said to be facilitating this process, with the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly consulted.
UEFA issued a strong statement condemning the proposal, asserting that "the soul and governance of football are not assets to trade - especially with zero transparency as to who gains financially." The organization emphasized that football is not FIFA's to sell and called for all national football associations, leagues, clubs, players, supporters, and governments to take the matter seriously.
UEFA members are expected to hold an emergency meeting this week to discuss their opposition to Infantino's plans, which could potentially involve skipping the World Cup. This could affect major footballing nations like Spain, England, and France.
FIFA has confirmed plans to launch a new body called FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), described as a "controlled subsidiary consolidating FIFA's commercial and event operations." The organization stated that FIFA would retain sole control of FFE and exclusive authority over football governance, competitions, and all regulatory and sporting decisions, claiming the move would increase funding for its 211 member associations.
Critics have likened the proposal to the European Super League, with some calling it a potential "nuclear bomb" for the sport. Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter criticized the reported plan, suggesting a "financial dimension" to the relationship between the FIFA President and the U.S. President that is "deeply damaging football."
Prime Minister Andy Burnham also voiced his opposition, stating, "Football does not belong to investors. It belongs to the people who fill the stands and who stand on the touchline week in, week out, rain or shine. The World Cup is not a product. It is the greatest competition in world sport, and it was never anyone's to sell."
The potential deal has also raised questions about transparency and potential financial windfalls for individuals. Reports suggest that potential investors, including Joshua Kushner, brother of Jared Kushner, have signed non-disclosure agreements. FIFA, a not-for-profit organization with tax-free status, has an expected revenue of around $15 billion for the 2022-2026 cycle, much of which was generated from the recent World Cup.
The proposal could also impact the global football calendar, with potential expansion or more frequent holding of the Men's and Women's World Cups, as well as changes to the Club World Cup. Under the proposal, FIFA's 211 member associations would each hold stakes in the new entity, potentially worth around $20 million, with the option to sell them for funds. FIFA would maintain a majority stake.
These reports emerge at a time when Infantino is already facing scrutiny over issues related to the recent World Cup, including U.S. visa restrictions for fans and officials, ticket prices, and his ties with the Trump administration. The proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup marks a significant development in the ongoing governance discussions within international football.