UEFA and all its 55 European football associations have jointly rejected FIFA’s plan to introduce private investment into major football tournaments. The governing body has warned that national teams may boycott FIFA competitions, including the World Cup, if the proposal proceeds.
Controversial Investment Plan
FIFA proposed creating a new commercial entity, FIFA Forward Enterprise, valued at approximately $20 billion (Sh2.6 trillion). The plan involves FIFA retaining majority ownership while selling minority stakes to private investors to raise around $4.2 billion (Sh543 billion).
FIFA President Gianni Infantino supports the initiative, arguing it would increase revenues without compromising FIFA’s control over football matters.
UEFA’s Opposition
In a unanimous decision following an emergency meeting, UEFA criticized the plan, stating that the World Cup is a sporting legacy that should not be treated as an investment product or be partially owned by private investors.
UEFA condemned FIFA for inadequate consultation with football stakeholders and described the proposal as a failure of leadership and an abdication of FIFA’s custodial responsibilities.
The European federation expressed concerns that private investors could influence competition formats, international calendars, and other critical decisions, prioritizing financial returns over the interests of players, fans, and the sport’s development.
Potential Boycott
UEFA declared that no European national teams would participate in FIFA competitions while the investment plan remains active unless FIFA completely abandons the proposal and commits to excluding private ownership from football governance and competitions.
"No UEFA national teams will participate in any FIFA competition for so long as these proposals remain alive," the statement read.
