UEFA Threatens World Cup Boycott Over FIFA Investment Plans

European football’s governing bodies have taken a strong stand against FIFA’s proposed investment plans, with all 55 member associations agreeing to consider a World Cup boycott if the proposal goes ahead. The plan involves FIFA allowing private investors to buy stakes in its competitions.

The matter was discussed during a special emergency meeting after FIFA revealed the proposal earlier this week. The meeting was held to decide the next steps following the announcement from football’s world governing organisation.

Concacaf has also opposed FIFA’s idea, with all 41 of its member associations rejecting the proposal introduced by FIFA president Gianni Infantino. The organisation, which represents football in North and Central America, made the decision after holding a meeting on Thursday. Sources have also indicated that several Concacaf nations are becoming increasingly unhappy with Infantino’s leadership.

UEFA had previously expressed its concerns through two strongly worded statements, and the latest developments have further shown the growing disagreement between European football officials and FIFA.

"The World Cup cannot be treated as an investment product.” said the UEFA statement.

"It is one of football's greatest sporting legacies. It has been built over generations by players, national teams and supporters across every continent. No part of it should ever be surrendered to private investors. The World Cup is not for sale." added the statement.

UEFA’s boycott threat would apply to all FIFA tournaments, including the men’s and women’s World Cups as well as the Club World Cup. The move would only happen if FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s proposals receive approval from member associations.

The first major event where this decision could have an impact is the Women’s World Cup play-offs scheduled for October.

During UEFA’s meeting, FA chairwoman Debbie Hewitt and chief executive Mark Bullingham were among the officials who spoke about the issue. The mood of the meeting was reportedly very tense, showing the strong opposition to FIFA’s plans.

Although Debbie Hewitt holds the position of one of FIFA’s eight vice-presidents, she was reportedly unaware of the discussions taking place between Infantino and other officials regarding the proposals. This further shows that Infantino wants to take such drastic step unilaterally without taking other stakeholders into confidence.