UEFA Threatens World Cup Boycott as Infantino's FIFA Faces Revolt
UEFA Threatens World Cup Boycott as Infantino's FIFA Faces Revolt
Asein Ohis with agency reports
The reported dispute has become one of the biggest governance crises in world football.
UEFA's 55 member associations have unanimously threatened to boycott FIFA competitions, including the FIFA World Cup, if FIFA President Gianni Infantino proceeds with plans to sell minority ownership stakes in the commercial rights of the World Cup and other FIFA competitions to private investors.
UEFA insists that "the World Cup is not for sale" and argues that football's most prestigious tournament should never become an investment product.
UEFA says the proposal was developed without proper consultation and believes it risks undermining the governance and integrity of the game. FIFA, however, says the plan would create billions of dollars in additional funding for football development worldwide while retaining control over sporting decisions.
If UEFA follows through on its threat, it could have a massive impact on future FIFA tournaments, as Europe is home to many of the world's strongest national teams and clubs. However, as of now, the boycott remains a threat and negotiations could still change the situation.