FIFA has reaffirmed its commitment to proceed with a controversial initiative to sell stakes in its football competitions to private investors, despite strong opposition from UEFA and Concacaf.
On Thursday, UEFA, the governing body of European football, voted to boycott upcoming World Cups if FIFA's proposal moves forward. Similarly, Concacaf, representing 41 member associations in North and Central America, publicly rejected the plan put forward by FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
FIFA requires approval from at least 106 of its 211 member associations for the proposal to be accepted. UEFA and Concacaf combined hold 96 votes, indicating significant resistance to the plan.
In response to the backlash, FIFA issued a statement on Friday addressing misinformation circulating in the media. The organisation emphasised its dedication to an open and democratic consultation process, allowing all member associations to vote based on accurate information.
FIFA's statement highlighted:
- "Nobody is selling football."
- The consultation process had been "disrupted by incorrect media reports."
- Commitment to transparency and member association engagement.
The debate underscores tensions within global football governance as FIFA seeks new financial models while facing resistance from key regional bodies.
