Gianni Infantino’s World Cup sell-off plan receives unlikely support from European nation

FootballSports
29 Jul 2026 • 8:28 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Gianni Infantino’s World Cup sell-off plan receives unlikely support from European nation

  • Gianni Infantino's controversial plan to sell stakes in the World Cup's commercial rights has emerged, promising significant financial incentives to Fifa member associations.
  • The plan offers a potential $40m for Fifa member associations – of which there are 211 – who sign up to the plan by 19 September.
  • David Trunda, president of the Czech Football Association, has backed Infantino's proposal, telling Sky he sees “pragmatic benefits” for Czech football, which is an early setback for Uefa's potential boycott.
  • In contrast, Uefa has strongly condemned the plan, criticising the lack of transparency and asserting that 'The soul and governance of football are not assets to trade', while the English FA expressed deep concern over the process and governance.
  • The proposed investment, which Fifa suggests could raise $4.2bn, is set to be led by Thrive Eternal, a company headed by Joshua Kushner, brother of Jared Kushner, Donald Trump's son-in-law.

IN FULL

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved