European football governing body UEFA has strongly criticised FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s reported plan to sell stakes linked to the World Cup, warning that such a move could threaten the principles and governance structure of global football.
In a statement issued in response to the proposal, UEFA said the plan crosses a boundary that football’s governing institutions should not approach.
The organisation stressed that the sport’s identity, values and decision-making systems should not be treated as commercial assets.
“This crosses a line that football’s governing institutions should never cross,” UEFA stated, adding that national football associations, leagues, clubs, players, supporters and governments should all take the matter seriously.
The reaction follows reports that FIFA is considering creating a new commercial venture that would allow private investors to acquire stakes connected to major competitions, including the FIFA World Cup.
The proposal is reportedly aimed at generating significant funding for football development projects around the world.
However, UEFA has raised concerns about transparency and accountability, questioning who would financially benefit from such an arrangement.
The European body argued that football belongs to all stakeholders and cannot be controlled or sold by a single organisation.
“The soul and governance of football are not assets to trade, especially with zero transparency as to who gains financially,” UEFA said. “None of us is the owner of football. It is not FIFA’s to sell.”
FIFA has defended the proposal, explaining that the planned commercial structure would focus on increasing investment in the game while maintaining FIFA’s control over football governance, competitions and sporting decisions.
The disagreement has opened another chapter in the growing tension between FIFA and UEFA over the future direction of football.
The two organisations have previously disagreed on issues including tournament formats, competition expansion and the international football calendar.
