Uefa will boycott the World Cup and all Fifa competitions if Gianni Infantino’s controversial plans to sell off stakes in its major tournaments to external investors are voted through.
“Uefa and its 55 member associations stand as one,” a statement said following an emergency Uefa meeting on Thursday. “We unanimously and unequivocally reject Fifa’s proposal to transfer ownership interests in the World Cup and other Fifa competitions to private investors.
“The World Cup cannot be treated as an investment product. 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. As a result of today’s discussion, no Uefa national teams will participate in any Fifa competition for so long as these proposals remain alive, unless this proposal has been abandoned in its entirety and binding assurances have been given that Fifa will never again open its governance or competitions to private ownership.”
Uefa were left dismayed that Infantino has given Fifa’s member associations just 53 days to decide their position and were outraged by Infantino promising a $40m (£30m) windfall to nations who back the proposals, or have the one-off payment withdrawn. Uefa’s statement added: “National associations around the world are now presented with an ultimatum: accept the irreversible capture of football’s greatest competitions or bear the consequences. This is not a ‘democratic decision’, but governance by intimidation – an act of coercion unworthy of an institution entrusted with the stewardship of the global game.”
A spokeswoman for the English FA echoed the Uefa sentiment, saying: “We stand shoulder to shoulder with our European colleagues and fully support the collective view. We oppose Fifa’s plans – the Fifa World Cup belongs to football and always will.”
Uefa previously said that Infantino’s plans to sell off stakes in Fifa’s major tournaments to private investors, including members of Donald Trump’s family, “crossed a line”. Uefa also knows it will require support from another confederation to block Infantino’s plans, as Fifa only requires a majority (50 per cent plus one) vote from its 211 member associations – though Concacaf have officially rejected the proposals as pressure builds on the Fifa president.
Follow all the latest news after Uefa’s bombshell boycott threat, below
Read MoreInside Uefa’s extraordinary World Cup boycott plans – and what Fifa might do next
‘Football is not for sale’: Uefa confirms boycott of World Cup and Fifa competitions
World Cup news LIVE: Uefa agree to boycott at emergency meeting
- Uefa agree to World Cup boycott if Gianni Infantino goes ahead with World Cup sell-off plan
- Uefa statement says that 'so long as Europe has a voice, the World Cup will never be for sale'
- Emergency meeting was held involving 55 European associations following more Fifa controversy
- English FA echo Uefa sentiments, saying 'we stand shoulder to shoulder with our European colleagues'
- Gianni Infantino has unveiled plans to sell off stakes in the World Cup to investors
- Concacaf rejects Fifa proposal as pressure builds on Infantino
Sepp Blatter's condemnation of his successor's plans
20:45 , Will CastleFormer Fifa president Sepp Blatter launched a scathing attack on the world football governing body's plans to create a $20 billion subsidiary to manage the World Cup, insisting the tournament is not a commercial asset to be controlled by a select few executives.
"Football belongs to no individual and to no institution. It belongs to the people," Blatter, 90, told Reuters. "If Fifa were transferred into a profit-oriented corporate structure, it would lose its soul."
Australian players' union 'disturbed' by World Cup plan
20:30 , Will CastleAustralia's professional footballers' union has sharply criticised Fifa's contentious plan to introduce private investors into the World Cup and other major tournaments, accusing the governing body of sidelining players and fans while pressuring member associations to approve the proposal.
Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) declared that the sport is facing "a battle for its soul" as commercial interests increasingly seek to influence its most prestigious competitions.
"The PFA is disturbed by the lack of transparency surrounding the proposal and the absence of meaningful consultation with those that generate the value that Fifa is seeking to exploit - the players and the fans," the union stated in a scathing release.
"At a time when football desperately requires greater transparency, accountability and good governance, proposals of this significance raise questions about who the game is run by and in whose interests. These tournaments should not be for sale."
Australian players’ union ‘disturbed’ by Fifa’s World Cup plan
Inside rogue agent Gianni Infantino’s secret plan to sell off the World Cup
20:15 , Miguel DelaneyNot even Gianni Infantino’s inner circle or closest advisors at Fifa knew about his privatisation project - and were angered when the news emerged.
Many in football suspect that this plan was developed with financial interests connected to the wider Donald Trump family over the last year, explaining Josh Kushner’s current proximity.
Miguel Delaney reports:
Inside rogue agent Gianni Infantino’s secret plan to sell off the World Cup
Concacaf rejects Fifa proposal
20:07 , Harry Latham-CoyleConcacaf, which governs football in North and Central America, has roundly condemned Fifa’s proposals in a strong statement.
It concluded: “Concacaf and its 41 Member Associations have:
- Rejected the proposal;
- Tasked their Fifa Council Members with engaging Fifa to determine how existing Fifa reserves could be used to increase Fifa Forward funding for football development across our region; and
- Tasked their Fifa Council Members with instructing the Fifa President to ensure that any matter follows the proper governance processes via staff and Fifa Council, in accordance with the FIFA Statutes.
“Through these actions, Concacaf reaffirms that football's future—and its greatest asset—must remain in the hands of our football family.”
How Gianni Infantino defended controversial World Cup sell-off plan in bizarre video
20:00 , Will CastleLast night, Fifa published a video where Gianni Infantino described his controversial plan to sell stakes in the World Cup as a “proposal” and “not an obligation”.
Infantino wants to sell the World Cup. Can anyone stop him?
19:45 , Lawrence OstlereFifa members who vote through Gianni Infantino’s plan to sell the World Cup to investors will get $40m. Vote it down, and it’s just $10m. Here, chief sports writer Lawrence Ostlere dissects the pitch football can’t refuse – and how Uefa are pushing back – in this week's Inside Football newsletter:
Infantino wants to sell the World Cup. Can anyone stop him?
Scottish FA gives 'unequivocal' backing to Uefa boycott
19:30 , Will CastleThe Scottish Football Association has “unequivocally” backed Uefa’s declaration that all European nations will boycott the World Cup until Fifa drops its controversial plans.
The SFA’s statement read: “The Scottish FA Board agrees unequivocally with the concerns raised by all (UEFA) members over the manner in which these proposals have been issued, and deadline set, without a full consultation process or consideration to good governance.
“The Board is fully supportive of the statement issued by UEFA following the meeting. We are also aligned with our fellow national associations who seek to ensure our collective voice is heard resoundingly, and that the Corinthian spirit which underpins the beautiful game – invented here in Scotland and shared with the world – is protected.”
Inside Uefa’s extraordinary World Cup boycott plans – and what Fifa might do next
19:15 , Miguel DelaneyAt the start of the emergency meeting that saw Uefa drop “a nuclear bomb” on Gianni Infantino’s plans to privatise the World Cup, federation president Aleksander Ceferin uttered a phrase that would be echoed a few times over the next two hours.
“Enough is enough.”
That may not just apply to the project and Infantino’s leadership of Fifa, which is now suddenly under serious threat, but also the wider football world.
Inside Uefa’s extraordinary World Cup boycott plans – and what Fifa might do next
Czech Republic reverse stance
19:00 , Will CastleAccording to Uefa’s statement, all 55 member nations were in agreement over the boycott. This includes Czech Republic, whose FA yesterday backed Gianni Infantino’s sell-off plan.
"I can see the pragmatic benefits for Czech football from working in close co-operation with [Fifa president] Gianni Infantino and his team," Czech FA president David Trunda told Sky.
"Of course we need more details, but my personal point of view is that I can see the positive impact of Fifa’s intentions.
"I was elected a little more than a year ago, and for me personally all the projects I have experienced in cooperation with Fifa have been very positive for the development of European football."
This position has clearly been reversed.
What are the 55 countries involved in Uefa's boycott?
18:45 , Will CastleUefa’s 55 member associations are as follows:
- Albania
- Andorra
- Armenia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- England
- Estonia
- Faroe Islands
- Finland
- France
- Georgia
- Germany
- Gibraltar
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Israel
- Italy
- Kazakhstan
- Kosovo
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- North Macedonia
- Northern Ireland
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Republic of Ireland
- Romania
- Russia
- San Marino
- Scotland
- Serbia
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Turkey
- Ukraine
- Wales
What happens now?
18:30 , Will CastleFirst, let’s see how all the other confederations respond - and whether they also agree to a boycott.
Asia (AFC) and North America (CONCACAF) have all voiced their opposition and disapproval of the plans in the last few days. The South American and African federations, however, have been quiet so far.
Really though, it’s now over to Fifa.
Will Infantino and his executives plough on undeterred with their plans? Or will they modify, amend or abandon their proposals, given the uproar across Europe?
What tournaments will Uefa's boycott cover?
18:15 , Kieran JacksonIt will cover all Fifa-sanctioned tournaments covering national teams. As it stands, the boycott will not cover club teams, meaning the planned 2029 Fifa Club World Cup would not be affected.
As such, the first senior tournament would be the 2027 Fifa Women’s World Cup, taking place between 24 June and 25 July, in Brazil next year.
Europe have 11 guaranteed slots in the 32-team competition. Spain are the defending champions, while England were finalists last time out in Australia.
England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland all have scheduled play-off qualifiers in October, which are organised by Uefa. Whether these matches specifically will go ahead, therefore, is yet to be confirmed.
The next men’s World Cup takes place in 2030 in Spain, Portugal and Morocco – with opening games in Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay.
The next Fifa tournament at any age group is the 2026 Fifa Under-20 Women’s World Cup, which starts on 5 September in Poland. Six European teams, including England, were set to compete.
The 2026 Fifa Under-17 World Cup, for which England did not qualify, starts on 19 November in Qatar.
What have Uefa agreed?
18:00 , Kieran JacksonAn emergency virtual meeting on Thursday was held between all 55 national associations which are members of Uefa, European football’s governing body.
In a lengthy statement, Uefa confirmed that “no Uefa national teams will participate in any Fifa competition for so long as these proposals remain alive” – adding “unless this proposal has been abandoned in its entirety and binding assurances have been given that Fifa will never again open its governance or competitions to private ownership.”
It added: “Nobody should be in any doubt: Uefa and its national associations will oppose these plans with absolute determination.”
What have Caf said?
17:45 , Will CastleCaf, the confederation for Africa, displayed an openness to consider the proposal by Fifa and encouraged other members to take a similar attitude.
“The Confederation Africaine de Football (Caf) received correspondence today from Fifa on the proposed Fifa Forward Enterprise initiative, in accordance with the consultation process that is currently underway with Fifa Member Associations and the Fifa Council,” a statement read.
“As part of this consultation process, the Caf President, Dr Patrice Motsepe, will host a meeting of the Caf Executive Committee next week, to inter-alia, assess and evaluate the proposed Fifa Forward Enterprise initiative.
“Caf also encourages its Member Associations to examine the Fifa Forward Enterprise proposal and participate in the consultation process in accordance with Caf and Fifa’s regulations and established procedures.
“Caf is committed to continue consulting and working together with its Member Associations, Fifa, other Football Confederations and stakeholders in support of increasing financial and other resources for the development and growth of football in Africa and worldwide.”
What have the AFC said?
17:30 , Will CastleThe AFC, Asia’s confederation, echoed the concerns of Concacaf surrounding the lack of consultation from Fifa.
Its statement read: “The AFC was not consulted on the proposal and is disappointed that a matter of such significance entered the public domain before the AFC family had been afforded the opportunity to examine and discuss it through the appropriate and established governance channels.
“While the AFC recognises the importance of exploring innovative approaches that can strengthen the future of global football, initiatives of this scale and consequence must be founded upon the principles of good governance, transparency and meaningful consultation.
“Decisions that may reshape the commercial and financial future of the game require comprehensive prior engagement with Confederations, Member Associations and other relevant stakeholders before any proposal is made to the appropriate decision-making body(ies).
“The AFC firmly believes that all stakeholders should be provided with sufficient information and adequate time to assess the proposal in full, including its governance, legal, commercial and strategic implications.
“Such a process is essential to ensuring that any decision reflects the collective interests of the global football community and reinforces confidence in Fifa’s governance framework.
“As one of global football's six Confederations, the AFC remains committed to the continued growth of world football.”
AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al-Khalifa branded Fifa’s lack of consultation with its members as “totally unacceptable in a latter to the regional body’s 47 member federations on Thursday, adding: "The AFC notes with great concern and disappointment that it was not consulted by FIFA at any level prior to the public announcement of this proposal.
“And nor has it received any detailed governance, financial or legal analysis of the proposal and its potential repercussions, which is totally unacceptable.
"Furthermore, the AFC is deeply concerned that Fifa’s unilateral actions appear to undermine the very foundations of continental football, which are based on solidarity, cooperation and transparency."
What have Concacaf already said?
17:15 , Will CastleConcacaf, football’s governing body for the Caribbean and North America, has already strongly criticised Fifa for failing to consult them over its shock plan to sell stakes in the World Cup.
“Concacaf was only made aware of this matter through media reports and, subsequently, via a media release,” a statement on Wednesday read. “We are deeply concerned by the lack of due process.
“We share the disappointment of many within our region and the game that this level of detail has been designed and shared publicly before any discussion with the relevant governance bodies and stakeholders has taken place.
“As leaders within football, we are the custodians of the game. Collectively, Fifa, the Confederations and every Member Association have a responsibility to always act in the best interests of the sport. Every decision we make must be guided by good governance, robust processes and long-term stewardship.
“This is the framework within which Concacaf operates. We trust that all within the Fifa family will act in the same manner.”
Note that this initial statement does not outright condemn the plans, rather expressing an anger at not being consulted.
Concacaf meeting penned in after Uefa boycott
17:00 , Miguel Delaney, Chief Football WriterUefa delivered the strongest response possible to Gianni Infantino’s sell-off plan - now it’s the turn of other confederations to come together and discuss their stance.
Concacaf appear to be next - they will meet at 5:30pm today.
Football Supporters Europe: 'Game over, Gianni'
16:52 , Will CastleGame over, Gianni#InfantinOUT https://t.co/VNSXs5HrI0
— Football Supporters Europe (@FansEurope) July 30, 2026
‘Football is not for sale’: Uefa confirms boycott of World Cup and Fifa competitions
16:45 , Will CastleUefa has announced that it will stage full boycott of Fifa competitions, including the World Cup, if Gianni Infantino’s controversial plans to sell off stakes in its tournament to private investors are voted through.
Jamie Braidwood brings you the full story:
‘Football is not for sale’: Uefa confirms boycott of World Cup and Fifa competitions
FA: 'We stand shoulder to shoulder with our European colleagues'
16:37 , Will Castle“We stand shoulder to shoulder with our European colleagues and fully support the collective view,” an FA spokeswoman said.
“We oppose Fifa’s plans - the Fifa World Cup belongs to football and always will.”
More from Uefa statement: 'World Cup belongs to football'
16:30 , Will Castle“Nobody should be in any doubt: Uefa and its national associations will oppose these plans with absolute determination,” finishes the Uefa statement.
“There are moments when institutions are judged not by what they are prepared to accept, but by what they refuse to compromise. This is one of those moments.
“Some things are simply too important to sell. The Fifa World Cup belongs to football. It always will. And so long as Europe has a voice, it will never be for sale.”
More from Uefa statement: 'This model has no place in world football'
16:29 , Will Castle“The moment external investors acquire ownership interests in Fifa competitions, football changes forever,” Uefa’s statement continued. “Commercial return becomes a permanent obligation. Investor expectations become a daily pressure. From that moment onwards, every decision on the international calendar, every decision on competition formats and every decision shaping the future of football is no longer driven by what best serves the game, but by what best serves shareholders.
“This model has no place in world football. Football’s future cannot be dictated by the expectations of those whose first duty is to maximise financial return. Nor can the interests of national associations, leagues, clubs, players and supporters become subordinate to investor returns. Football cannot mortgage its future for financial gain.
“Europe’s position is clear. We will never lend this model our legitimacy. No one has the moral authority to sell what they merely hold in trust for the next generation.
“As a result of today’s discussion, no Uefa national teams will participate in any FIFA competition for so long as these proposals remain alive, unless this proposal has been abandoned in its entirety and binding assurances have been given that FIFA will never again open its governance or competitions to private ownership.”
Uefa statement confirms boycott after Fifa's 'governance by intimidation'
16:27 , Will Castle“Uefa and its 55 member associations stand as one. We unanimously and unequivocally reject Fifa’s proposal to transfer ownership interests in the World Cup and other Fifa competitions to private investors,” Uefa’s statement read after an emergency meeting today.
“The World Cup cannot be treated as an investment product. 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.
“It is both irresponsible and indefensible that a proposal of such significance for football was conceived in secret and brought to the brink of approval without any meaningful consultation with those entrusted with stewarding the game. This is not merely a profound failure of leadership, but an abdication of Fifa’s duty as the custodian of world football.
“National associations around the world are now presented with an ultimatum: accept the irreversible capture of football’s greatest competitions or bear the consequences. This is not a “democratic decision”, but governance by intimidation – an act of coercion unworthy of an institution entrusted with the stewardship of the global game.
“But our opposition goes far beyond process.”
CONFIRMED: Uefa boycott Fifa competitions over Infantino plans
16:24 , Will CastleUefa has released a statement confirming its boycott of Fifa competitions.
It read: “As a result of today’s discussion, no Uefa national teams will participate in any Fifa competition for so long as these proposals remain alive, unless this proposal has been abandoned in its entirety and binding assurances have been given that Fifa will never again open its governance or competitions to private ownership.”
Are clubs involved in Uefa's boycott?
16:18 , Miguel Delaney, Chief Football WriterMore details on Uefa’s boycott of Fifa competitions, namely whether it concerns clubs as well as countries.
According to sources, clubs have not been particularly discussed in this boycott due to the fact future editions of the Club World Cup haven’t actually been agreed yet.
The inaugural Club World Cup only passed by the skin of its teeth.
Uefa to boycott all Fifa competitions - not just World Cup
16:13 , Miguel Delaney, Chief Football WriterUefa’s boycott will include all Fifa competitions, not just the World Cup, unless Gianni Infantino climbs down from his sell-off plan.
BREAKING: Uefa will boycott World Cup if Infantino goes ahead with sell-off plan
16:07 , Miguel Delaney, Chief Football WriterHearing that Uefa will boycott the World Cup outright if Gianni Infantino goes ahead with his plan to sell off the tournament.
It’s all been agreed between the member nations.
A statement will follow.
World Cup boycott discussed as feeling of 'unity' within emergency meeting
16:02 , Miguel Delaney, Chief Football WriterI’m told the tone of Uefa's meeting so far has been one of "unity".
Dissenting federations were naturally looking at prospective Fifa money.
But that doesn't come without cost, especially if they "break the whip".
The meeting, which started at 2pm BST, and is still ongoing. I’m told it could go on for well over two hours.
The emergency meeting has inevitably discussed the threat of a boycott, and there is consensus that they will use if necessary.
Fifa aiming to finalise funding for controversial World Cup sell-off plan within months
15:49 , Jamie GardnerFifa is aiming to finalise private funding for its contentious World Cup company by the end of October.
The proposal to sell stakes in a private entity, which would manage all commercial and operational aspects of Fifa’s competitions, has provoked a strong backlash from Uefa and raised significant concerns among European clubs and major leagues globally.
Documents seen by PA outline an indicative timeline for the investment process. Investors are expected to gain access to a term sheet and selected materials in August, before submitting initial ‘Letters of Intent’ (LOIs) in September, detailing their desired investment.
Binding bids would then be agreed upon in October, with funds transferred to Fifa by the end of the month.
Fifa aiming to finalise funding for controversial World Cup plan within months
Uefa criticises Fifa for selling football's 'soul'
15:29 , Jamie BraidwoodRelations have deteriorated between Uefa and Fifa in recent years, and Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin refused to attend the World Cup final following a series of disagreements over disciplinary procedures, refereeing logistics and match operations.
Gianni Infantino’s proposals drew fierce criticism from Uefa, which said the plans “crosses a line that football's governing institutions should never cross”.
“Uefa takes it extremely seriously,” it said in a statement. “So should every National Football Association. So should every stakeholder: leagues, clubs, players, supporters, governments and everyone who cares about the future of the game.
“The soul and governance of football are not assets to trade – especially with zero transparency as to who gains financially. None of us are the owners of football. It is not Fifa’s to sell.”
Gianni Infantino defends controversial World Cup sell-off plan in bizarre video
15:09 , Jamie BraidwoodLast night, Fifa published a video where Gianni Infantino described his controversial plan to sell stakes in the World Cup as a “proposal” and “not an obligation”.
Africa body Caf appears open to Fifa's World Cup plans
14:49 , Jamie BraidwoodCaf, the confederation for Africa, has displayed an openness to consider the proposal by Fifa and encouraged other members to take a similar attitude.
“The Confederation Africaine de Football (Caf) received correspondence today from Fifa on the proposed Fifa Forward Enterprise initiative, in accordance with the consultation process that is currently underway with Fifa Member Associations and the Fifa Council,” a statement read.
“As part of this consultation process, the Caf President, Dr Patrice Motsepe, will host a meeting of the Caf Executive Committee next week, to inter-alia, assess and evaluate the proposed Fifa Forward Enterprise initiative.
“Caf also encourages its Member Associations to examine the Fifa Forward Enterprise proposal and participate in the consultation process in accordance with Caf and Fifa’s regulations and established procedures.
“Caf is committed to continue consulting and working together with its Member Associations, Fifa, other Football Confederations and stakeholders in support of increasing financial and other resources for the development and growth of football in Africa and worldwide.”
Fifa’s plan to sell World Cup stakes ignites outrage: ‘Worse than the Super League’
14:29 , Miguel DelaneyFifa has announced plans to sell stakes in its tournaments, including the World Cup, to private investors, in a decision that has been described as “worse than the Super League”.
Under the new scheme, Fifa would retain majority control of a new enterprise, and the rest would be sold, partly to each of Fifa’s 211 national associations should they wish to invest, and partly to private investors.
The Independent’s Miguel Delaney dissects the controversial plan, the huge wave of backlash from across both the football community and politicians around the world, and what the long-term consequences could be.
AFC president criticises Gianni Infantino's World Cup proposals
14:09 , Jamie BraidwoodIt’s not just Uefa who have opposed the manner of how Gianni Infantino has gone about opening up the World Cup to outside investment. Fifa has been strongly criticised by Concacaf, football’s governing body for the Caribbean and North America, along with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) for failing to consult on its shock plan to sell stakes in the World Cup.
AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al-Khalifa branded Fifa’s lack of consultation with its members as “totally unacceptable” in a latter to the regional body’s 47 member federations on Thursday, adding: "The AFC notes with great concern and disappointment that it was not consulted by FIFA at any level prior to the public announcement of this proposal.
“And nor has it received any detailed governance, financial or legal analysis of the proposal and its potential repercussions, which is totally unacceptable.
"Furthermore, the AFC is deeply concerned that Fifa’s unilateral actions appear to undermine the very foundations of continental football, which are based on solidarity, cooperation and transparency."
Infantino wants to sell the World Cup. Can anyone stop him?
13:49 , Lawrence OstlereGianni Infantino sent a letter to Fifa’s 211 member associations this week, which The Independent has seen, pitching his big idea to sell stakes in the World Cup to investors. In it, he promises some eye-watering numbers, including a $20m annual payment that will grow each year, and a $20m one-off payment for those nations who choose to participate.
Essentially: vote through my plans and you’ll receive $40m. Vote them down? You’ll only receive $10m.
It is an offer most football associations around the world simply can’t refuse. And amid Infantino’s spiel, another line stood out. His letter lays out the financial rewards on offer. “In exchange,” he writes, “all that is required is your continued trust – everything else remains the same.”
It reads like something The Godfather’s Vito Corleone might say.
Infantino wants to sell the World Cup. Can anyone stop him?
Major European countries aware of power dynamics within Uefa
13:29 , Miguel DelaneyUefa's meeting will see federations discuss the threat of a boycott, in the manner that instantly killed Gianni Infantino’s plan to keep Russian teams in competition following the invasion of Ukraine, as well as consultation with the European Commission.
Sporting bodies are generally given exemptions from competition law by the EC due their cultural role, but private interests fly in the face of that.
It’s also precisely because of the attractiveness to smaller nations that some of the bigger powers feel they have to tread more diplomatically. They are fully aware of perceptions of major forces dictating everything to the rest of the game.
That is why a “deeply concerned” English Football Association is currently more intent on building alliances, despite a lot of pressure to take a stronger public stance.
Structure of Fifa vote means Gianni Infantino retains upper hand
13:09 , Miguel DelaneyFifa’s broken political structure is one of clientelism, where money redistributed just serves as a vote-returning mechanism, and was supposed to be reformed when Gianni Infantino succeeded Sepp Blatter.
The threshold for approval has also been lowered from the usual 75 per cent to 50 per cent plus one. It is for all these reasons that stakeholders know that Fifa would win any vote. Enough current leaders will just see the money coming in now.
Even Uefa's emergency meeting will be held in the knowledge that many of their smaller members fully support Infantino.
That is despite the obvious problem that introducing private investment will just incorporate financial incentives that work against the smaller nations in the long term. Such investment partners would inevitably have an interest in core parts of the game, like the calendar, and all guided by the sole motivation of raising revenue.
Football’s major stakeholders are consequently determined to ensure that this never actually gets to a vote.
Inside rogue agent Gianni Infantino’s secret plan to sell off the World Cup
12:49 , Miguel DelaneyNot even Gianni Infantino’s inner circle or closest advisors at Fifa knew about his privatisation project - and were angered when the news emerged.
Many in football suspect that this plan was developed with financial interests connected to the wider Donald Trump family over the last year, explaining Josh Kushner’s current proximity.
Read more:
Inside rogue agent Gianni Infantino’s secret plan to sell off the World Cup
'Angry' Uefa members prepared to discuss boycott
12:29 , Miguel DelaneyFifa’s plan has provoked fury in most of the European game, to the point that an alliance of all major stakeholders is gaining strength.
Bodies including the Football Association, European Leagues, European Football Clubs, the Union of European Clubs, the Football Supporters Association and Football Supporters Europe have already released strident statements, mostly condemning the lack of proper process, but with some going much further and demanding drastic change at the top of the game.
Figures within the national associations and Uefa’s structure are most infuriated by the unilateral nature in which Gianni Infantino has come up with the plan as well as the very prospect of privatisation, and how it has been presented to federations with a limited timeframe of 53 days before what amounts to a binary vote amid the “bribery” of those who agree being guaranteed higher returns.
A key question being asked is how any of this was decided without presentation to any other part of football governance, right up to how JP Morgan has already been decided upon as a likely partner.
The anger is such that national associations are prepared to discuss the threat of boycott, or at least to use the idea as leverage to kill Infantino’s plans.
English FA ‘deeply concerned’ by Fifa plan to sell off the World Cup
12:09 , Jamie BraidwoodThe English Football Association (FA) has said it was blindsided by Fifa’s proposed plan to sell stakes in the World Cup and has expressed “deep concern” about the whole situation.
“We were completely unaware of this proposal and have no substantive details, including what the proposition actually is, and what conditions are attached,” a spokesperson said.
“Based on the limited information, we are deeply concerned about the lack of process and governance to get to this point, and the apparent substance and principles involved.
“When the proposal is shared in the full and transparent way now promised by Fifa, we will make our views clear, and comment further.”
Czech FA breaks ranks to back Gianni Infantino’s World Cup sell-off plan
11:54 , Jamie BraidwoodUefa may want its countries to be sining from the same hymn sheet as they attempt to block Gianni Infantino’s plans, but the president of the Czech Football Association has broken rank by supporting the Fifa president.
For Uefa, European football’s governing body, Trunda’s comments are an early blow to their hopes of launching a member-wide boycott of Fifa competitions. In order for a boycott to take place, all 55 Uefa members would unanimously have to agree.
"I can see the pragmatic benefits for Czech football from working in close co-operation with Gianni Infantino and his team," Trunda told Sky News.
"Of course we need more details, but my personal point of view is that I can see the positive impact of Fifa’s intentions.
"I was elected a little more than a year ago, and for me personally all the projects I have experienced in cooperation with Fifa have been very positive for the development of European football."
Uefa dismayed by Infantino's promise to offer countries 'one-off' payment for backing plans
11:39 , Jamie BraidwoodGianni Infantino has told the heads of Fifa’s 211 member associations that they could miss out on a $30m payment if they do not back his plan to sell stakes in the World Cup, and has given them just 53 days to decide.
In a letter to the member associations, seen by The Independent, Infantino has promised that national federations would benefit from an increase of its ‘Fifa Forward’ funding from around $8m to $20m for the upcoming four-year cycle between 2027 and 2031 if the new FFE subsidiary is created.
Additionally, the letter states that a “one-off” payment of another $20m would be made available for member associations who vote for Infantino’s proposals on 19 September.
In the letter, member associations are then warned that their funding for the 2027-2031 cycle would only stand at $10m if the vote does not pass, meaning they would miss out on $30m.
A further statement from Uefa on the $40m windfalls said: “Today we have learned of Fifa’s deadline to associations to support their proposals or have the one-off payout offer withdrawn. This says everything you need to know about this plan.
“But having held discussions with many stakeholders across the game, Uefa knows there is significant and growing opposition to Fifa’s scheme. Fifa cannot continue to use our sport to enrich themselves and their friends. We can grow the game correctly. It’s time to prioritise associations, clubs, leagues, players and fans.”
What will Uefa's emergency meeting look like?
11:24 , Jamie BraidwoodIt’s set to start at 2pm this afternoon and will be held virtually, with the heads of the 55 member associations logging onto what will essentially be a Zoom meeting.
The meeting won’t be streamed online, but news from what is discussed is certain to trickle out over the course of the afternoon.
How can Uefa stop Gianni Infantino's plans?
11:20 , Jamie BraidwoodGianni Infantino needs a majority vote from Fifa’s 211 member associations (50 per cent + one) and the backing from the Fifa Council. He has confirmed that a vote will take place on 19 September, which is just 53 days after the plans were leaked to the media via The Times on Tuesday.
Uefa’s members make up 55 of Fifa’s 211 national associations - so they cannot stop the vote outright and they would need support from at least one other confederation, such as North America, Asia, Africa or South America. But where Uefa do have leverage is that the World Cup would not be the same without countries Spain, France and England - three of the four semi-finalists from this summer’s tournament.
The threat of a boycott is a powerful card to play - but do they have the courage to play it?
What is Gianni Infantino trying to do?
11:11 , Jamie BraidwoodOn Tuesday, Fifa revealed plans to create a new subsidiary to manage the commercial rights and delivery of the World Cup and other major tournaments, with Gianni Infantino confirming that the new company - ‘Fifa Forward Enterprises (FFE)’ - would be open to external capital investment.
Private investors will be sought to “make minority, non-controlling investments” in the company. The investor group for FFE is set to be led by Thrive Eternal, founded earlier this year by Joshua Kushner – the brother of US president Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Fifa is working with bankers at JPMorgan to raise billions of dollars by bringing in external investors to take as much as a 20 per cent stake.
In a statement, Fifa said it would “raise up to $4.2bn later this year” to fund the project, “based on an initial equity valuation of $20bn by carefully selecting long-term investors who will purchase minority, non-controlling interests ... All net benefits will be reinvested back into football worldwide.”
What has Uefa said about Gianni Infantino's World Cup proposals?
11:04 , Jamie BraidwoodUefa, the governing body of European football and a long-term critic of Fifa president Gianni Infantino, said in a statement: “This crosses a line that football’s governing institutions should never cross.
“Uefa takes it extremely seriously. So should every National Football Association. So should every stakeholder: leagues, clubs, players, supporters, governments and everyone who cares about the future of the game. The soul and governance of football are not assets to trade – especially with zero transparency as to who gains financially.
“None of us are the owners of football. It is not Fifa’s to sell.”
Uefa to discuss boycotting World Cup in emergency meeting after Fifa bombshell
11:01 , Miguel Delaney, Chief Football WriterUefa will hold an emergency meeting this afternoon, where the prospect of boycotting the World Cup will be discussed as leverage against Gianni Infantino’s controversial plan to privatise the tournament.
Next steps with the European Union will also be raised, as the European Commission scrutinises whether Infantino’s project contravenes protections that are afforded as regards competition law.
Fifa’s plan has provoked fury in most of the European game, to the point that an alliance of all major stakeholders is gaining strength.
Bodies including the Football Association, European Leagues, European Football Clubs, the Union of European Clubs, the Football Supporters Association and Football Supporters Europe have already released strident statements, mostly condemning the lack of proper process, but with some going much further and demanding drastic change at the top of the game.
Uefa to discuss boycotting World Cup in emergency meeting after Fifa bombshell
