- Fifa insists “nobody is selling football” amid criticism of its privatisation plan, but stopped short of withdrawing the controversial plan and pressed ahead with the consultation period.
- UEFA and CONCACAF rejected the World Cup investment plan; Infantino refused to back down after UEFA stated they would not participate in FIFA tournaments.
- Uefa reacted furiously when the plans to create Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) first emerged in media reports in The Times and the Financial Times.
- According to Fifa, the Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) would be used to raise funds from outside sources and split them among the 211 member associations.
UEFA and CONCACAF have united against FIFA's plan to sell ownership stakes in World Cup operations to private investors, threatening a boycott of all FIFA tournaments.
FIFA's proposal, aimed at raising funds through the Fifa Forward Enterprise, has sparked outrage among member associations.
"We unanimously and unequivocally reject Fifa's proposal to transfer ownership interests in the World Cup and other Fifa competitions to private investors," UEFA stated, emphasizing their commitment to preserving the integrity of the sport.
FIFA insists that "nobody is selling football" and is proceeding with a consultation period ahead of a vote scheduled for September 19.
However, UEFA's 55 member associations have made it clear that they will not participate in any FIFA tournaments until the proposal is rescinded.
"This proposal has infuriated MAs such as Uefa and Concacaf," a source noted, highlighting the widespread discontent among football's governing bodies.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who has publicly backed the initiative, faces increasing scrutiny over his leadership as the backlash intensifies.
The situation remains tense as FIFA continues its consultation process, with many in the football community calling for a reevaluation of the plan.
“Fifa insists “nobody is selling football” and says its proposed Fifa Forward Enterprise would split outside investment among the 211 member associations. Infantino’s leadership is being called into question, with Uefa having reacted furiously after The Times and the Financial Times reported the plan on Tuesday.”
The Independent
