The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has joined UEFA and CONCACAF in opposing FIFA's proposed private investment plan, expressing alarm that the discussion has reached a point where a 'World Cup boycott has entered public discourse.' This opposition comes as a significant blow to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who faced the resignation of senior advisor Carlos Cordeiro. Cordeiro, a former head of the US Soccer Federation, issued a strongly worded statement against the proposal, emphasizing his unequivocal opposition to selling a stake in the World Cup.
Cordeiro's resignation followed FIFA's announcement of its intention to proceed with an 'open and democratic' consultation on the plan, despite strong feedback from UEFA and CONCACAF. UEFA has threatened to boycott the World Cup if FIFA goes ahead with the plan, a stance that has resonated with the AFC, which represents 47 member nations. The AFC's statement highlighted the seriousness of the situation, noting that the possibility of a World Cup boycott should concern all stakeholders in the game.
FIFA's proposal, which aims to raise up to $4.2 billion through private investment, has been met with widespread criticism. The plan involves selling stakes in the FIFA Forward Enterprise, the commercial subsidiary proposed to run events such as the World Cup and Club World Cup. If approved, each of FIFA's 211 member associations would receive a one-off payment of $20 million in early 2027, with increased funding allocations for the 2027-2030 cycle.
Despite the backlash, FIFA maintains its commitment to an open consultation process, asserting that all member associations should have the opportunity to consider the plan. However, the proposal has been disrupted by incorrect media reports, according to FIFA. The world body respects the feedback and concerns expressed by UEFA and CONCACAF, whose member associations have unanimously rejected the proposal.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has joined the criticism, stating that Infantino 'is the wrong man to lead' FIFA and calling the plan an 'outrageous suggestion.' UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has also been vocal, arguing that the World Cup should not be treated as an investment product and should not be surrendered to private investors. The European Union has praised UEFA for 'defending the integrity of the game,' and CONCACAF members, including the recent World Cup co-hosts, have unanimously rejected the proposal.
